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Movie spotlight

The Quitter

1987
Movie
8 min
English

A smoker arrives at a beach via sports car and is surprised to encounter a cloud who encourages him to be a "quitter." The well-informed nimbus delineates the reasons for cigarettes' allure, including the big screen's notorious puffers: John Wayne in Fighting tigers, Bette Davis and Charles Boyer in Now Voyager and Casablanca's Peter Lorre. It also cites incentives for abandoning the habit: cigarettes' terrible odor and the increased risks of heart disease and cancer caused by smoking. The cloud refutes popular excuses for not quitting, nervousness and weight gain, and offers tips to aid the smoker kick the habit

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Director: Arthur Allan SeidelmanGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

A young boy, Billy, struggles with a degenerative muscular disease that progressively weakens him. Despite his physical challenges, he maintains a strong will and determination to live life to its fullest, finding support and love from his family and friends. The film chronicles his journey through childhood and adolescence, highlighting his resilience in the face of adversity and his desire for independence.

Critical Reception

The Quitter received a mixed to positive reception, often praised for its sensitive portrayal of a young boy's struggle with a serious illness and its heartwarming performances. While some critics noted the film's emotional weight, others found it occasionally sentimental. It resonated with audiences for its inspirational message and the bravery of its young protagonist.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its emotional depth and the lead performance.

  • Some found the film overly sentimental but acknowledged its inspirational qualities.

  • A touching drama about courage and resilience.

Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's powerful emotional impact and the touching story of a boy overcoming significant challenges. Many viewers found it a moving and inspiring experience.

Fun Fact

The film was based on the true story of Billy Barty, a dwarf actor who, despite his small stature and a condition that caused early arthritis, achieved significant success in Hollywood and advocated for the rights of people with disabilities.

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