Won't You Be My Neighbor

Rating 5+/5

It takes a lot for a movie to make me cry, but Won't You Be My Neighbor had numerous instances where I was wishing I had brought tissues with me to the theater.

Won't You Be My Neighbor is a documentary that chronicles the life of Fred Rogers and how he came to be one of the most influential people in the history of children's television. Before going into the theater, I knew very little about the history of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. I had watched the show as a child in the 90s, and loved every moment of it. As an adult I started to become more aware of the unparalleled level of kindness he gave to others, so with all that in mind, I was eager to learn more about the life and lessons of Fred Rogers.

Coming out of the theater, I had more respect and love for Mr. Rogers than I had ever thought possible. I had never known of the bravery and tenacity that Mr. Rogers possessed. He was daring enough to defy what society viewed as being right, because he knew in his heart that discrimination and violence will always be wrong. He spread the belief of kindness and acceptance using subtlety rather than large gestures, and in that quiet manner his inspirational beliefs found their way into the minds and hearts of those who were fortunate enough to watch him on television.

I have been reduced to tears in other documentaries, but it is because they had been created to show the horrors that the human race is capable of. So I found it wonderfully refreshing to be wiping away tears because I was so touched at the level of kindness that one person can bring to the world. This movie was bound for success from the moment someone suggested making a documentary about Fred Rogers. It's beautiful and heartwarming, a must see for everyone, if only to see the possibilities of what compassion, understanding, and acceptance can do.