Akeelah and the Bee



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		Akeelah and the Bee

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		On DVD Now Best For Tweens (10-12) Rated PG
		Life Lessons

		Against all odds, an 11-year-old girl from south Los Angeles makes her way to the National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C., and along the way, learns the importance of following her dreams and believing in herself. With a stellar cast including Laurence Fishburne and Angela Bassett, this inspiring family film has many valuable messages to share. As spunky Akeelah warily learns to be proud of her gift for spelling--rather than hiding it for fear of appearing "nerdy"--young viewers can also learn that they have the ability to control their destiny. Kids may come to understand why they're always being told to "use their words," and will be surprised to discover that words have the power to literally change the world. This age-by-age guide is presented by our sponsor.


	NO. This movie is intended for older children.


	NO. This movie is intended for older children.

MAYBE. At close to two hours, the movie is probably too long for younger kids in this age group. Because many of them are just beginning to become comfortable with reading and spelling, they may be overwhelmed by the multisyllabic words Akeelah has to study. Older kids, though, are at an impressionable age where they just may take to heart Akeelah's tutor's demand that she get rid of the "ghetto talk," and stop using words like "ain't." They'll also find it hysterical when a friend of Akeelah's brother yells to her, "Kick his butt, Akeelah! B-U-T-T!"

YES. Tweens will find much of the movie thought-provoking, including the idea that rap is basically a form of poetry. Learning that big words simply come from little words may take away some of the mystery and intimidation of spelling for them while showing them how to break down and deconstruct difficult words. They'll also get the message that spelling bees are not about robots and rote memorization, but about the incredible power of words, and they may want to show off their newfound knowledge with a rousing game of Scrabble.

--Lois Alter Mark, the Flicks for Kids Expert



		Segments about the making of the movie, the relationship between the star and the director, and going "Inside the Mind of Akeelah," plus a gag reel, deleted scenes and a music video.



			Movie Pluses
		Empowers young viewers Encourages teamwork/sportsmanship Reveals the power of words Sends a message that being smart is cool

			Movie Minuses
		Mild language Akeelah's father's death (he was murdered)