My Favorite Movie: The Neverending Story

Growing up, one of my favorite movies was 'The Neverending Story.' Based on the novel by the same name, the movie follows the plight of a young boy named Bastian who recently lost his mother. Bullied and harassed every day on the way to school, Bastian stumbles upon a book store with an unusual and gruff man who inadvertently introduces him to the book, 'The Neverending Story.' When the man disappears, Bastian tucks the huge, leather bound book into his book bag and disappears into the early morning light.

When Bastian gets to school, he hides himself in the storage area and immerses himself into the story of Fantasia and the Childlike Empress. Bastian loses himself and all track of time as he reads about Atreyu, a boy about his age, who is sent to save all of Fantasia from the Nothing. Though Bastian only reads the trials of Atreyu, he lives every moment with the young hero and empathizes with his struggles against the Nothing, and eventually himself.

The Neverending Story is a classic fairytale, with mythical creatures, young heroes and a princess who needs her empire saved. While the graphics are dated in the film, the movie still holds up to the imagination of children. This movie made me believe in fairytales and in my own imagination.

It also explores a child's ability to be more than just a kid. Since Fantasia can only be saved by a child, the story gives children the understanding that even they are capable of accomplishing great feats.

The Neverending Story is a great family movie, full of hope and creativity. I highly recommend this movie to anyone who wants a child's story of courage, strength and fairytales.