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This is one of those movies that slipped under the radar but left a curious impression on me. "The Book of Henry" is about a precocious young boy, Henry, who lives with his mother and younger brother. He discovers something disturbing about his neighbor and creates a detailed plan to help, blending family drama with a bit of mystery and suspense.
What really stood out to me was the dynamic between the mother (played by Naomi Watts) and her two sons — it's heartfelt, quirky, and sometimes a bit unconventional. Naomi Watts does a lovely job portraying a mother trying to figure things out as she goes along, and Jaeden Martell is earnest and engaging as Henry. There’s this genuine sweetness to their interactions, especially in the little family rituals and their inside jokes.
Where the film stumbles is in its abrupt tonal shifts. It starts as a warm, almost whimsical family story, then veers into thriller territory, which can feel a bit jarring. Some of the plot developments, especially in the later half, require a healthy suspension of disbelief. The script occasionally stretches credibility, and you might find yourself going, "wait, really?" more than once.
Visually, the film is pleasing — there’s a soft, golden glow to much of the cinematography, which matches the storybook-esque atmosphere at the start. Director Colin Trevorrow keeps things visually engaging, though the contrasting moods sometimes clash. The film is peculiar in the way it combines genres, which is both a strength and a weakness.
You would enjoy this if you like bittersweet, offbeat family dramas that aren’t afraid to take big swings, even if not all of them land. It’s perfect for someone looking for something a little different, with memorable performances and a thought-provoking premise about family, justice, and belief in oneself.
