Family Movie Night  returns this Saturday, June 11th, 8PM EST on NBC with FIELD OF VISION.

A Synopsis from the official website: 

Through mysterious footage captured on an old malfunctioning video camera, Sinclair High School's star quarterback, Tyler McFarland, learns that some of his teammates have been bullying Cory Walker, a troubled new transfer student. Aware that sharing this information with the coach might get his friends kicked off the team and ultimately cost the school the state championship, Tyler must choose what's more important: winning or doing what's right.

As these events unfold, the camera also reveals more surprising footage to Tyler's kid sister Lucy. She learns that Cory has a secret past, unknown even to him. Now Lucy must convince her mom (Faith Ford, Murphy Brown) and family that the camera's revealing insight is not a product of her imagination as she enlists their help to find the answers Cory so desperately needs. It's a compelling and intriguing story that shows both the challenges and rewards of doing the right thing even when it's tough to do.

My Review:

Bullying is not a new issue. As someone who was shy, book-smart, and from a broken home I identified with Cory Walker. I remember hiding and not going on the playground fearing harassment.. I know what it's like to have people whisper behind your back or say hurtful things because you are perceived as a little "different". Movies depicting the problem of bullying and offering workable solutions can be valuable tools for learning.

I enjoyed watching Field of Vision. I'll be honest. It's a typical "feel good" popcorn movie. While the story and acting were solid I kept waiting for some other dramatic shoe to drop but it never did. I also don't understand inserting the "magick camera" into the plot. I'm sure it was meant to add a fantasy element for child viewers but if anything I think it took away from the deeper lessons available to young viewers about the problem of bullying.

Field of Vision does a fair job in presenting the problem of bullying in school. Bullies are often insecure. They pick on people who appear weak or won't fight back to build their self worth. Field of Vision offers the opportunity to experience what the proper response to bullying should be. Field of Vision is entertaining for children and adults alike. The real bonus will be the discussion which could be opened between kids and adults on how to deal with bullies.

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."