Great movie about a child and those he loves, quirky humor
930611
Briefly, this movie, in Mandarin Chinese but with English subtitles available, made in Mainland China, centers around a dentist who has a young child, perhaps age 6-7, no mother but the father has a former love interest who is a television announcer for a game show who decides to enter the child in the game show.  The object is to get the child to go home, hence the name, "Home Run," on his own, but with a bit of prompting, as needed to keep him safe, from many of the game show staff which are to remain unseen by the cameras filming the child live on nationwide television.  The ratings of the show have been sagging lately and the host (the former love interest of the child's father, the dentist) is about to lose her job therefore, but when the dentist's child performs many unexpected moves on live television interest in the live show skyrockets and viewers all over the city and country are riveted to the live action wondering what the child will do next.  The father (dentist) is unaware his child is starring on live television, making the action all the more unpredictable and thus riveting the viewers to their sets all the more.  That's the story line, which makes for riveting viewing for us as well.  I found the humor a bit quirky, in a very novel and thus enjoyable way.  Particularly the ending scene has a twist that's very quirky as well, but involves poetic justice that can only make one wince as well as laugh at its novelty.  All in all I enjoyed the movie tremendously, almost meriting a five star review, but to do my part to avoid "grade inflation" I'm giving it four stars.  For those wishing to learn the Mandarin Chinese language it's an extra bonus and is worth five stars, as its dialog is not too rushed or mumbled and basically I learned a lot of new Chinese words and remembered Chinese words I had previously learned by watching it.
2928183
it was a special movie.  my husband and i watched it with our 8 year old.  my husband cried.  (not a common occurrence) and it was funny enough to keep my son's attention.  heartwarming and thought provoking.
534595
This movie is a rare find. It is a delightful family film with real actors instead of animation. Superb casting, a semi-nostalgic theme, humor without vulgarity. The characters are real, and they unfold through a story that is unique. Touching without being radically sentimental.
Other reviewers here are too busy noting that Haley is growing up and that Michael isn't a Texan to appreciate the overall effect of this movie. Yes, it has a couple of flaws here and there. Haley is actually the catalyst, not the star. The story is presented through his eyes, how he saw the uncles and their world. He is in awe because it is a very different world than his. Caine and Duvall make a wonderful pair.
Both kids and grown-ups can truly enjoy this comedy, not the slapstick kind but one that stems from the idiosynchrasies of character. I could see it perhaps 2-3 times without getting bored. Highly recommended for a great family outing!
4434686
This movie is a poignant reminder that life is precious and to be very thankful for the people you love in your life. It was worthwhile and touching although not necessarily a "kids" movie.  That isn't a bad thing though.

My oldest child, nearly 9, was sad after this movie.  He had a hard time going to bed and is actually falling asleep in my bed as I type. He is the sensitive type though and is deeply affected by other people's pain.  The couple in the movie that were unable to conceive their own child showed a lot of emotion and heartbreak in this movie.  There were plenty of funny and touching parts as well.  There is a death of an older family member.  While there is nothing in this movie that is offensive, sensitive persons may be saddened by it somewhat.  That said, I will recommend it to most anyone.

My younger children, ages 7 and 5, were completely fine and able to go to bed without an issue.  It might be too much for anyone feeling raw from infertility issues however, so keep that in mind.  (The movie UP was very upsetting to me on some levels because the couple had issues conceiving and I had been through similar pain however, I still love that movie.)
1030494
Really enjoyed this movie. Clearly it's geared towards kids with a strong message of equality and diversity in cultures other than the mainstream focus of "black vs. white," and some of the ignorance portrayed in this movie is a bit over-the-top (which is why I didn't give it 5 stars). But overall, this was a positive message with a fun script and well worth the time to watch it. Doesn't hurt that the lead, John Maucere, is a cutie.
2645947
Such an adorable movie. The characters are cute, the story is quite fun and poignant at times, and the whole thing is just so funny and sweet. Rob Schneider is hilarious as Dodo the bird...and Josh Duhamel add the main character Ace has a sweet dignity and cuteness that melts your heart. Kids under 10 seem to all love it, and there's a cpl wonderful lessons in it as well, that parents will appreciate.
I would definitely get it for any kids I care about. And anyone who says it is a copy of Disney's Planes, is utterly wrong...because this movie was made first. So if one is a copy...well, it isn't this one :-)
It's a movie with heart, and character..and kids would be lucky to have it.
278209
Saw this in theaters and adored it. Rented it to watch with my older kiddo and he is over the moon for it. Mild swearing might be a bit much for smaller/sensitive ears but a fun, funny action film with great characters, a wonderful soundtrack and a lot of heart. It's my son's new favorite movie (besides any of the Harry Potters).
4301802
This DVD has been watched more in the month that we've had it than some other DVDs we've owned for years. My kids, especially my 2-year-old, LOVES this movie. My husband and I also enjoy it; there are lots of jokes to make adults laugh too. Music is catchy, colors are vibrant, I would recommend this movie to anyone.
327577
Funny, beautiful, heartwarming. I saw this movie when a was a little girl and hadn't forgotten about it since. I was incredibly excited to see it on Prime. Boys and girls will enjoy this movie with all of its magic and bravery. Parents will enjoy it and even chuckle at times with its great humor.
4372625
My 6 yo daughter loves this movie and so does the whole family. It is really funny and sometimes sad. Deals in an interesting way with feelings a show they all have a part and have a job to do. Even the negative ones. Unique story. Well done. Love this!!!!!!
1998073
I came across this movie quite by accident with my five-year-old granddaughter.  This movie is funny and quirky and she loved It.
581593
Warm (no pun intended), touching movie.  Very humorous as well.  I think the "bonies" and some of the zombies might be a bit much for younger kids.
1260936
This film has it all, a touching story, amazing humour and a sparkly main child character. Spoilt rich kid played supurbly by a newcomer, is kidnapped by mafia hoodlms and the laughs run free. Me and Ray cried while watching this and little Elliot laughed likea hyene at the kids antics. If you like Mac and Me buy this, it is supurb companion and will make you feel young again
465186
I love this Disney movie, and so do my young daughters.  We laughed and laughed as Kyle's luck turned from good to bad... and he begins turning into a leprechaun - all because his "lucky charm" is stolen.
The movie brings up an important subject of family heritage... something that we all have.  Kyle is not interested in anything of his own until he believes his parents are hiding it from him... with that and his sudden bad luck and the physical changes his mother and him take on... Kyle is the answer to preserving that history, and saving his good fortune of being an American.
At the end of the movie, you will want to stand up and sing along with the final song.  This is a warm, feel-good, family movie... good for kids of all ages, and a great way to get your children interested in their own family heritage.
1021105
This movie has been a favorite of mine ever since I was little. It's very funny and so chock full of jokes that every time you watch it you find a quip you missed
51053
This is one of those movies that was originally filmed in another language (non-English) and then over-dubbed with English dialogue.  It is full of kooky songs that are slightly outside the norm.  But my kids (2 and 3 years old) love the movie.  It has a great fun energy, and is very innocent.  We liked it enough that when it went out of rotation on netflix, we ordered this DVD to have around.  Would recommend.
388896
My child is in love with this movie, so I have seen it many, many, many times. It remains pleasant to watch and holds up to repeat viewings. There are a few hidden jokes for the parents, which helps, and the story is sweet but not saccharine. I am very excited about the Rita character, voiced by Kate Winslet - it is great to see such a strong female heroine who displays great character and ingenuity. The cast on this film is amazing.