Steven Spielberg‘s life is coming to life on the big screen in The Fabelman’s. Though the names are changed, one who knows Spielberg’s unique writing will instantly catch on to this.
The Fabelman’s is a coming to age tale of a nine year old boy who’s first movie on the big screen is a one way ticket to his ultimate destiny. Sammy Fabelman is instantly captivated by the idea of bring his own movies to life to watch over and over as he asks for a toy train, like the one in the movie. His mother, Mitzi encourages his creativity by presenting his first camera, which he uses to both make movies and document is crazy, soon to be dysfunctional family. All along, Sammy faces both highs and lows as people encourage and discourage, calling it a “hobby” and that he needs to be more serious.
In the end, the journey flourishes when he finally gets his big break with one of the biggest directors in Hollywood.
The film stars Michelle Williams as his mom and biggest fan. In the opening scene when Sammy is going to the theater with his parents, it’s fitting that the movie, “The Greatest Show On Earth” fits Williams role from just a few years ago. Williams has a way of capturing that of homemaker as well as a woman with a bigger secret, one that can only be uncovered through the magic of movie.
Similarly, Sammy’s father is played by Paul Dano, who has a naturally more serious role. He has fun but tries to show his family that it takes hard work to be successful. The cast also welcomes Seth Rogen as the more comedic role who along with Williams is great as hiding a secret until the camera catches them.
Throughout the movie there is an underlying message and that is the message of forgiveness that grows as the family starts to become more and more separate. The family moves from New Jersey to Arizona and finally both Northern and Southern California as Sammy passion for Storytelling and movie making grows.
All in all the film is a perfect semi autobiographical tale of how a little boy’s dreams can become reality even in the midst of opposition.
The Fabelmans came out in theater November 11, 2022 and is currently playing in a theater near you.