This movie stirred up memories of childhood the way that the lime tea and madelines stirred Marcel in Marcel Prousts novel Swanns Way. I recalled things that I had not thought about in years. Childhood memories raced back. The conversations between the kids were conversations that I observed among my own friends. This script is dead on. It captures a universal quality of childhood. Most were at least exposed to conversations like these.
George Washington is unique in that it shows the tragic and bitter elements in life but does not fall to despair. It has a message of hope that most art films tend to ignore, because the dark side of life is more interesting. This is a positive movie for the most part, and is so in a beautiful and inspiring way. Not all of the kids find this hope, but some dare to dream and are actually heroic. The film pays attention to all aspects of life, all the ups and downs of childhood, in such a refreshing way. It is made in love, and that shines out even in the darkest moments.