Wondrous Oblivion

Story Line: In '60s London, 11-year-old David (Sam Smith) dreams of being a great cricket player. When a Jamaican family moves in next door, David receives encouragement and cricket lessons from patriarch Dennis (Delroy Lindo). But mounting tension from unfriendly neighbors threatens to derail the friendship David and Dennis have built.

Bottom Line: As it explores issues of race relations during a transitional time in London, Wondrous Oblivion is a movie of surprising power and poignancy. Smith is excellent as David, the wide-eyed Jewish boy who crosses racial boundaries to build friendships. And Lindo creates an astonishing character in Dennis, at once authoritative and completely approachable. His sensitivity and enthusiasm take the film to deeper levels. Director Morrison's lush visuals help to propel the story forward, making even the game of cricket look exciting. Audiences with an interest in passionate human stories that build bridges should find plenty of value and understanding in this film.