“Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” (Focus)
By Catholic News Service
This cheerful and reverent documentary about Fred Rogers (1928-2003), creator and host of PBS’ long-running “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” highlights his calm temperament, as well as his moral courage in the face of adversity and indifference.
Director Morgan Neville, who includes interviews with Rogers’ family and supporting cast members in addition to vintage film clips, also enjoys making some faintly political points. Rogers’ spiritual life and his role as a Presbyterian minister are given only oblique references. But his gentle, soft-spoken personality shines through.
Possibly acceptable for mature teens. A fleeting glimpse of rear male nudity, mature discussions of racism, homosexuality and death. The Catholic News Service classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 — parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
Click here for full reviews of this and other current movies by Catholic News Service.