I took my 8 year to this movie and she loved it. I too liked the underlying messages in the movie....the love and bonding between a father and son. I was pleasantly surprised and delighted to see this meaning played out between an African-American father and his son! I also liked the fact that the movie encourages kids to follow their dream, love themselves for who they are and also warning against the dangers and destructive effects of excess, greed and over eating. Applause to the writers and producers!