The movie seems utterly and sincerely well-intentioned -- which is why what happens in it is so jaw-dropping.

For all its unsubtle sentimentality, it remains unclear whether Little Boy intends to celebrate the conviction of belief or to mock it.

Despite boasting several important moral lessons, the period piece is more artificial than a polyester teddy bear stuffed with Splenda and Cheez Whiz - and about as appealing

There's an earnestness that simply can't be denied.