Family Tree MPAA Rating: G Entertainment: +2 Content: +3

Henry Musser (Roberts Forster), a local businessman, persuades the head of Benjamin Plastics to locate a brand new plant in Henrys old, deteriorating, rural town. Everyone is delighted except Henrys 10-year-old son, Mitch (Andrew Lawrence), who finds out BP will have to cut down his favorite climbing tree to build the plant. The huge oak tree also holds many memories for the townspeople who carved their names and remarks on the tree through the years. So Mitch mounts a protest movement and before long, many townspeople are standing with him to keep the plant out. This poses a real dilemma for Henry who must decide between the feelings of his son and others, and the many jobs the new plant will bring. How he resolves this crisis makes for an enjoyable story, particularly with its surprise ending. This gentle, heartwarming story is a refreshing break from the many violent and graphic films currently being released. However, FAMILY TREE may lack sufficient impact and excitement to draw a large audience.

Musser and his wife are very loving and caring parents to their sons, Mitch and Mark. And they maintain strict morals in their family, even to the point of objecting to one of the boys using the word "butt." In fact, the films dialogue is virtually free of questionable language, with the exception of the word "butt" and exclamations using the word God, such as "Oh My God "and "For Gods sake. At one point, when his father insists he give up his protest, Mitch refuses to obey. Many fathers would probably be less sensitive to their sons feelings, but Henry desperately looks for a way to resolve the "tree" crisis without devastating his son. Another character, a seriously ill, former professional football player, also lends some pathos and moral quality to the film as he encourages Mitch in his efforts to save the tree. Legacy Releasing is the distributor of this fine family film and should be commended for bringing such quality entertainment to the viewing public.

Preview Reviewer: John Evans
Distributor: Legacy Releasing, 1800 North Highland Ave., Ste. 311, Hollywood, CA 90028