Customer Reviews

Indigo: A Film Of Faith, Family & An Extraordinary Child

5 star:		(14)
4 star:		(12)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(7)
1 star:		(10)

 

 

This is a low budget film, produced and directed by high budget, veteran film producer Stephen Simon, who is a co-founder of the Spiritual Cinema Circle, because he is interested in being involved in films that ask who we are and why we are here. The Spiritual Cinema Circle is intent upon paving the way for films that provide inspirational messages that uplift the lives of its viewers.

This film is one such film. It revolves around the relatively new phenomena known as "indigo children". Indigo, a color that falls somewhere between blue and violet, is said to be the color of the life aura that emanates from those with psychic ability. It is the color used in connection with children who have heightened sensitivities and emotional complexity. They are said to be able to communicate telepathically with others like them, and foresee events. Hence, the use of the term, "indigo children" has come into play when referring to these children. These indigo children, for the most part, have been born over the last ten years or so. Due to their psychic gifts, they are often misunderstood by others. Some believe that they have been sent by God to help right what has gone wrong in the world.

The film was co-written by self-styled Peace Troubadour James Twyman, the executive producer of the film, who is also the author of "Emissary of Light: A Vision of Peace", which chronicles his 1995 life defining experience in the mountains of Croatia. He co-wrote the "Indigo Children" script with Neale Donald Walsch, author of the best selling book, "Conversations with God", which spent about three years on the New York Times Best Seller List. Walsch also has a starring role in the film.

The film focuses on a family in crisis. Ray (Neale Donald Walsch) is the patriarch of this totally dysfunctional family. He appears to be a well-to-do real estate developer of some sort for whom environmental concerns are low on the totem pole of his priorities. He also appears to be under a great deal of pressure from his financial backers. When his business eventually goes belly up, Ray is estranged from both his son and his daughter. So, when his daughter gets herself into some trouble and eventually entrusts her special daughter, ten year old Grace, to his not so tender mercies, Ray will begin a spiritual journey that will take him full circle. Ray will not only learn that his granddaughter, Grace, is an "indigo" child, he will discover more about himself in the short time that he spends with her than he has in a lifetime.

This is a film that is conceptually interesting. The problem with its deficiencies lies primarily with the script. The story is simply not really well-fleshed out. The viewer may know that Ray's children are estranged from him, but the reasons later proffered in flashback somehow seem too insubstantial to account for the intense animosity. There are a number of subplots, as well, none of which are developed to the point of being particularly meaningful. Moreover, the way that the viewer is given an explanation of the phenomena of indigo children is terribly contrived. There is little finesse in the way that the film delivers its message. Moreover, there is an amateurishness about the film, overall.

Still, I thought Neale Donald Walsch was surprisingly good in the role of Ray, as he looked quite patriarchal. He infused the role with a great deal of credibility and was totally believable. The viewer cannot help but feel for him, which is why it is hard to believe the animosity that his son, daughter, and former wife harbor for him. The actress who plays ten year old Grace, Meghan McCandless, does what she can with the way that her pivotal role is written. It is a very two dimensional portrayal, as she exhibits none of the complexities often associated with indigo children. This lies more in the way in which her role was written, however, rather than any deficiencies on her part.

Notwithstanding some of the film's shortcomings, it is a film that has its interesting moments. The concept of psychic gifts is not grounded here in science fiction but rather, in spirituality, which is an intriguing way to look at such. The film also does have some life affirming moments, as Ray engages in self-realization about some of the choices he has made in life. This is a film that was an Official Selection of the Durango and the Ashland Film Festivals. It was also an Official Selection of the Santa Fe Film Festival, where it received the Audience Choice Award. This is a film that is worth a rental, if one is interested in the concept of "indigo children".

I gave this movie a 5 star to balance of those bad reviews (1 stars - JEEZ). I persume that these harsh reviewers may be a bit discontented from their hearts and want to keep everything everso logical. Well, guess what, the time of reason is a'changing, and even though this movie does not boom with celebrated movie stars or a famous director, it has a sweet innocense that is rarely seen in mainstream movies. Made with a modest $500,000 budget, I feel that the creators behind this work wanted to do good and I am glad someone finally tried to do something on the topic of indigo children. For those who simply DON'T BELIEVE in these kids, I have personally seen many of them and don't doubt at all. And no, they don't all have attention deficit disorder. Look in their eyes and open your hearts and perhaps it will lead you beyond your analytical side of your brain. It is definately a film worthwhile a look, even if it doen't have OSCAR written all over it! So, there you have it!! Enjoy!

I rented this despite my skepticism and I really did want to like it. I do believe in Indigo children who are appearing more frequently as a desperate heavenly mandate to correct the growing problems of our world. The producers of this film set out on a noble goal to bring attention to this phenomenon. What they forgot was the story. From watching it, it was obvious to me that the writer created a story from an idea that he wanted to write about Indigo children, instead of developing a plot/story that features an Indigo child. There is a difference, and it clearly shows. The scenes were flat, the delivery was flat, the dialogue was stilted and the film as a whole lacks an emotional pull. Its a shame and I do hate knocking this film because of its important message...but sometimes making a film that is so focused on a message, it comes across as propaganda or didactic instead of an inspirational story that works. I would give it one star, but because this is a first attempt to bring attention to Indigo children and that the efforts of everyone involved is noble, I can't fault them for failing to deliver a more polished story.

What we have is a story about an older man (in his 60s?) who has failed at being a good family man (though most of what we see is in flashbacks and still not compelling enough to convey just why his family dislikes him so). Somehow, his daughter gets mixed up in something and gets arrested, and its up to the father to look after her child, a precocious Indigo child. He's all logic and set in his ways, but she's mysterious wisdom who teaches him a few things. A bit hokey, especially when they meet up with another Indigo child with his mother, who's job in the script is to explain to the audience via a dialogue with the man just exactly who Indigo children are. Its a weak moment in the story and obviously contrived for our benefit.

What I did like about the film was when the grandfather and Indigo girl get a ride with a group of teenagers on a road trip. Surprisingly to me, the teenage girls were the best actors in the film and had the best dialogue...not to mention that they were cute and funny. The other aspect of the film I enjoyed was the cinematography, all those beautiful shots of Oregon's great outdoors.

I do agree with the intentions of the filmmakers and the Spiritual Cinema Circle to create spiritually minded films designed to uplift and inspire moviegoers. Unfortunately, they still need to work on their story development. I simply didn't find the plot of this film to be original, inspiring, realistic, or necessary. Until they release another one, there are better made spiritually-minded films to watch: "Dragonfly", "Field of Dreams", "The Sixth Sense", "Signs", "The Others", and "I Heart Huckabees" to name but a few. Supposedly "The Celestine Prophecy" movie has just finished filming and the "Embraced by the Light" movie is currently under production. Until then...we have to find inspiration in better crafted Hollywood productions.

Knowing about this movie for a few years, I was dreading the moment I would be able to watch it. I feared that the attempt would be too horrible to bear, that it would fall in the 'Warm and Fuzzy' experience generated by a popular Indigo Children book, maybe even move into New Age. While it was released in my area, I decided to wait for the DVD. I just discovered it made it to that medium this week. I am happy to report that my fear was unfounded, for the most part.

I was pleasantly surprised to find that I did enjoy the film. Yes, as other reviewers have pointed out, the story was weak with some acting that may not have been up to par. But for an independant film producing an introduction to a very confusing subject, I thought it was fantastic.

So why the Four Stars instead of Five?

* The weak story DID take away from the message. I have to tell people to ignore the carrying story and focus on the message.

* It only described a few Indigos and their styles without mentioning that there is a new set of circumstances for each and every child born. NOT all can see and hear angels, for example.

* They do not explain that not everyone sees the connection as a net or web or grid. Although a grid is a good visual, I know some who see the connection as more of a kind of well.

* While Indigos can and do know each other, and yes there is an odd inside language at times, the representation in the movie was a tad exaggerated... for effect, I assume.

Over all, this is a must see for several reasons. It brings into the consciousness the Indigo Child and their oddities. It is a good use of media and should be supported. It should also encourage others to show THEIR own version of the idea.

On a more personal note, it did not represent my own experiences for the most part, however I am a forerunner, which isn't an excuse, just an explaination. When I have interacted, even before I understood what was happening, it was a wonderful fantastic feeling. Grace and Nicolas in the film meet each other smiling like they were best friends meeting after a long time apart, that is how I feel when I meet another. Although I don't know what they whispered to each other, it COULD be just a representation of the spiritual connection. As to that language... once, before I understood, I had a conversation in front of a woman with someone I found later was also an indigo forerunner. Later, I talked with the woman we were talking in front of, she asked us what we were talking about, she couldn't understand a word of what was said... it amazed me. Apparently we didn't speak in just words, it was the most satisfying conversation I have ever had, btw.

To sum up my commentary, it is an excellent step in the right direction. I would like to encourage other filmmakers to attempt to represent their versions of Indigo Children. Some things are meant to be a mystery, the existance of Indigo Children should not be.

Indigo was written and produced based on the actual experiences of James Twyman with Indigo Children. Mr. Twyman is an informed and interesting spiritual leader and has produced several important courses involving sppirituality and now his experiences with actual Indigo children. He wrote the film to introduce people to these remarkable kids and their message to mankind. Not a wealthy man, many of the subscribers to his writings donated much of the money to get the project started. He was fortunate to have a Director of the caliber of Steven Simon to work on this and another spiritual giant - Neale Donald Walsh" to be a part of this undertaking. It is a film that everyone should see to have in idea of what these children represent. Their message is for the good of all people and whether you believe it or not, maybe it's time to look at the message and not the messenger. Twyman laid everything he had on the line to produce a work to carry an important message, regardless of sacrifice and should be applauded. If a couple of million dollars more were available it could have been a little fancier, but not better. The film was (I believe) the most viewed opening world premier of any independent film this year - Certainly worth another look by the skeptics. An important message of where we are going and where we are not!!

Now, I do not for one second believe any of the hokum surrounding "Indigo Children". It's a bunch of New-Age-nonsense that is probably going to cause some serious issues for the unfortunate children of True Believers. That said, this movie is one of the most hilarious I have ever seen. From the over-serious tone to the laugh out loud dialog, this movie will have you rolling with laughter! Exchanges like this: (after the Lil' Indigo touches a woman with breast cancer) Gramps: "Are you telling me that she cured your cancer?" Woman: "I wouldn't be surprised." Priceless! The honesty! The pure emotion! The insanity of the whole damn idea! Bloody brilliant!

The production quality is pretty high, the pace of the film is good, and the unique combination of melodrama, spiritual wackiness and unintentional humor will satisfy even the most critical viewer.

If you're a believer, well, then maybe you'll enjoy the film as a serious exploration of an incredible phenomenon. Good luck with that. If you're not, then you will love the laugh-out-loud earnestness of this charming bit of woo cinema. Rent it today, you'll be glad you did!

First of all, I wish to state that I am a big fan of Neale Donald Walsch. His books have changed my perception about life and God completely. He was born into this world for a purpose - to show humanity that God talks to all of us. However, he is no born actor and I really wish that this would be the last movie he will act in! (But he MUST continue to write more books!) Neale IS an American prophet of our present time. (Even God told that to him).

Coming back to the subject on "Indigo", this movie shows all the viewers the possibility of other planes of existence. The central theme of this movie contains a great Truth about pure minded souls. These souls have the "natural" ability to communicate with angels and other souls from the astral world. Adults must NOT hinder their ability to do this as it would hamper the spiritual growth of the child. These Indigo souls will bring up the human consciousness of our planet and they are not to be feared. Those skeptics who doubt the existence of life beyond our physical universe are shutting themselves out from the Inner Voice which everyone actually hears but hardly listen to. Thus they view every spiritual phenomenon with contempt and disgust.

The message this movie gives to the world deserves a 5-star rating. But on insight, the acting was not great (but NOT terrible) and the movie fails to state the reason why some children have this capacity of talking to angels and why most can't even think deeply about spiritual Truths. Other than that, this is a very touching movie which will definitely melt every heart which is pure and soft.

Nobody could call me a sceptic, or one who dismisses new concepts at the drop of a hat. However, this film just did not ring true. The ultimate intention of the film is to display the much talked about psychic awareness of the so called 'indigo' children. This, however, is not done convincingly enough, the main message of the film appears belaboured at best. The indigo children in this film are idealized to unnecessarily impossible proportions. They are made to look like angelic beings, unsullied by the ground they walk upon. This picture of children just did not fit in for me. All children have a bit of a brat inside them, thank God for that. Any accurate representation of children must include something of their devilish component, in some way.

Having said this, I must add that the basic idea behind this film is worthy of praise. It focuses on a situation where the protagonist is compelled to focus attention on his little granddaughter and her exceptional cognitive skills, after having avoided doing so for many years. Neale Donald Walsch springs a pleasant surprise with a virtuoso performance as the peppery grandfather. Indeed none of the actors can be discredited in any way for not doing a good job. The photography was excellent and one got to see some really breathtaking scenery. If it had not been for the trite, made-to-fit manuscript, the film would have been quite entertaining, even educative. As of now, it seems like a step in an exploration of a concept. Perhaps a step in the right direction, but yet too rough a diamond, needing more cutting and polishing.










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While I have never heard of Indigo children, the movie has really interested me in the topic. I have been teaching gifted middle school students for 8 years, but this topic never came up.

I'm not really sure why I picked the movie up, but I am so glad that I did. It was thoroughly enjoyable, had interesting characters, and was certainly not predictable. In fact it was a bit too short! I'll buy myself my own copy, as it is such a wonderful movie.

I felt that this movie was a decent first attempt at opening up the subject of Indigo Children for discussion. The movie in my opinion focused on a psychic child and not all Indigo children are psychic. I wish that the child was a better representation of an Indigo Child which Jan Tober and Doreen Virtue have done such a great job explaining in their books. Many people in the audience brought their children to see the movie and it was not a children's movie. This was a brave first attempt to bring this information mainstream.

The movie sponsors were selling a CD called Indigo Dreams at this event. I was already familiar with and using this CD with my son. This CD has been a fantastic addition to my childs life. All children would benefit from the meditation and stress management techniques presented in story format on this new CD. This is something that can actually help Indigo and all children.