The Indian in the Cupboard - A Movie Review

Come here, I need to show you something. This cupboard is magic!

The Indian in the Cupboard was released to theaters in 1995. Based on the book by Lynne Reid Banks, Omri is gifted with a cupboard for his birthday. Finding out that this cupboard has magic abilities, Omri brings a toy Indian figurine to life.

I must have been too young to appreciate this film for what it was when I was a kid. The Indian in the Cupboard is an impactful story that delivers several significant themes. It is a simple story that reflects childhood innocence. One of the best themes in the film is representation. We all come from different backgrounds, but we all have a story to tell.

Omri’s journey is significant. In very little time he has grown. I like how the film was from his perspective, reflecting childhood innocence. His journey reflects how important it is for children to learn on their own and be independent. I enjoyed Hal Scardino’s performance showcasing Omri’s curiosity, fears, and his confidence to stand his own ground.

Gary ‘Litefoot’ Davis did a remarkable job in his portrayal as the toy Indian figurine, Little Bear. I like how he actually has a story. He was genuine in his performance selling an authentic representation of Native Americans. Little Bear teaches Omri that you can’t always get what you want in life. Omri and Little Bear’s interactions depicted a genuine friendship.

Friendship is a powerful theme. Anyone can be friends. For his first and only movie, Rishi Bhat was excellent. Scardino and Bhat did a great job creating a sweet friendship that isn’t always perfect. Friends fight but it is important to forgive. Omri and Patrick’s bond is a chance for kids to learn the values of friendship. And most importantly, trust.

Another significant friendship is Little Bear and a cowboy figurine, Boone (Keith David). Because of their diverse lifestyles and difference in ethnicity, they refuse to befriend. It’s not until they relate to each other that they realize that they have more in common than they let on. Their friendship is empowering and I liked how they opened up about their personal lives.

Other credits to include are Lindsay Crouse, Richard Jenkins, Steeve Coogan, Sakina Jaffrey, Vincent Kartheiser, and Nester Serrano. Each adult character has a significant role to Omri. In the last half of the film, most of the secondary characters are not present. This signifies Omri’s growth and how he is becoming more independent.

I am surprised that I was never fascinated by the special effects when I was a kid. For most scenes, filmmakers had to shoot the actors separately because of the significance in the contrast of size. I am curious to learn more about behind the scenes. Camera angles indulged in the story. Although I felt like there were too many close-ups of Omri’s face.

The soundtrack is one of the best key elements in enhancing this powerful story. I especially enjoyed the piano music which at first is a slow rhythm until it gradually changes into a more suspenseful tune.

Little needs to happen in a great story to sell imagination. Originally Frank Oz did not want to take the opportunity to direct the film feeling that he was not the right choice for a children’s film. While there are some heavy themes depicted in The Indian in the Cupboard, the film successfully distributes growth, positive representation, and friendship.

The Indian in the Cupboard is a lovely film. I am so glad that I went back to watch it. Its message is deep. Find it on Netflix and enjoy with the whole family.