La lengua de las mariposas (1999, Spain), A.K.A. "Butterfly"

Why are there so many movies starring child actors? If there is one big turn off in movies for me, it would be children actors. If anyone disagrees with me, may I remind you of the award winning performances in "Phantom Menace", the painfully hard on the eyes forced cuteness in "Jersey Girl" or anybody in the Disney Channel line up. Yep, kid actors really wreck movies. However, if a child can act, this rarity will win me over, ten folds. In "Butterfly", the acting reaches one of rare heights that should be seen by all those that love great cinema.

          During the Spanish Civil War, a young, shy and timid boy finds strength and in his kind hearted teacher. The teacher, charmingly played by the late Fernando Fernán Gómez  (The Spirit of the Beehive), is a republican who's politics may collide with battle of Fascist rebels. Politics and coming of age tales don't come together this smoothly in a morality lesson that is unforgettable.

          Be sure to listen to the lessons being taught in this film, because the finale will test the viewers along with the characters. Top notch story telling that shouldn't be missed.

See it.