Having seen A MIND OF HER OWN on one of less commercial TVs in Poland, I was pretty astonished that not many people find the film worth seeing. Even on IMDb the few comments that have already appeared are in majority not very enthusiastic about the movie. Of course, it does not have that great performances, it's not a smashing success at the box office. However, if I had followed the advice of many people I talked to, I would have never seen this film and would never know what I have lost.
A MIND OF HER OWN being an authentic story is foremost a truly educational cinema. It's about will, about refusing to give up, about the indefatigable endeavor to reach personal happiness and, moreover, to reach self realization. Sophie Smith (Nicky Talacko) is a weak student, suffers dyslexia and gets very poor grades. Some mock her, others place doubt in her mind saying that she is bound to failure. Yet, there are two people who constitute a driving motor for her will and the fulfillment of her dreams: her friend Becky (Amanda Rawnsley) and a new biology teacher Peter Simpson (Ashley Cook). It is them who help her achieve a future that she would not think of even in her most fabulous dreams... It is them who help her overcome terrible problems she faces in her journey up towards the "impossible." That is why the movie is educational because it's about a particular person and, at the same time, about anyone. Therefore, the movie is also a truly captivating story that appears to be very realistic since many viewers are likely to feel empathy with the main character.
The performances are not Oscar worthy, I agree but it seems clear that the director emphasizes other aspects. No great cast since they would shadow a story a bit. The movie is not a vehicle for a star but a gift for every viewer. Meanwhile, we get wonderful moments. First, if you decide to see the film, don't skip humor. The shoes are, I think, the most memorably humorous moments but I also liked the very authentic and delicate flirting scenes: How these girls are after young handsome teachers! What is more, there are thought provoking moments as well. Contrast of two different attitudes, the idea of help, self discipline and, as aforementioned, journey up towards "the impossible." I think every young person should see the movie.
All things considered, I am not going to tell you traditionally: "I recommend you to see A MIND OF HER OWN" since these words do not have that power any longer. I'd rather start like this: "Do you know what you will do in future? Is that something you want to do?" Most probably, your answer is not that straight, that easy. Yet, sorry but I'll go on and ask you a more difficult question: "Do you know what you can do if you really start to believe in yourself?"
The same was with Sophie, she dreamed about sport and medicine. And the latter occurred the one for her because only then the other person could tell her out of their heart "You helped me, thank you!" Only then, in such moments "the other person" will constitute the whole world for you, will speak on behalf of the whole humanity in which you also have a spot. Are you ready to take such a journey up towards "the impossible?"
