If you’re anything like me and my 8-year-old daughter, you’re probably counting down the days until Walt Disney Studio’s “A Wrinkle in Time” opens in theaters this Friday (March 9th).
We’re so excited to see a movie that’s directed by a black woman (Ava DuVernay) and stars a young heroine of color (Storm Reid). After watching the trailer, Ava, excitedly blurted out, “That little girl looks like me!” Her giddy reaction made it clear that this was a movie we needed to see and support.
Storm Reid in a publicity shot for “A Wrinkle in Time” alongside my daughter, Ava.
Adapted from the classic book of the same title, the movie follows Meg Murry played by newcomer Storm Reid on a quest to find her scientist dad who mysteriously goes missing. Throughout her magical journey, she encounters fanciful characters that assist her mission. The fact the central character is bi-racial and appears black, is beyond refreshing.
Storm Reid as Meg Murry in Walt Disney Studio’s “A Wrinkle in Time” in theaters everywhere March 9th. Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney Studios
As a mom, it’s so gratifying to finally witness this kind of representation on the big screen. Sure, there have been movies here and there with young black girls cast in supporting or minor roles, but I can’t think of a single film that features one—especially not a big-budget, sci-fi fantasy picture.
Having my daughter see someone who looks like her in a movie like this will undeniably have an impact on her. Who knows? It could inspire her to become a scientist, actress or possibly even a director. The point is that seeing yourself in larger-than-life roles can spark a child to pursue a career or unlock a passion they didn’t know existed prior to the exposure.
“A Wrinkle in Time” is groundbreaking on multiple levels. Not only is Reid’s role as Meg in the motion picture adaptation of the classic book a game-changer, DuVernay is at the helm of this $100 million-budget film—a first for an African-American woman.
Oprah Winfrey as Ms. Which in Walt Disney Studio’s “A Wrinkle in Time” in theaters March 9th.
If that #blackgirlmagic wasn’t enough, the movie also stars the queen of all queens: Oprah Winfrey—who will surely give us all of the celestial godmother goodness that only she can bring with her portrayal of Ms. Which. Plus, this will be my daughter’s first time seeing a movie in theaters that isn’t animated—making this a movie milestone for her.
During my recent DisneySMMC trip (more on that soon), we bloggers were given “A Wrinkle in Time: A Guide to the Universe,” book for young readers, as well as tickets to see the movie when it hits theaters. My daughter is beyond thrilled about the book and movie. She’s already started the book, but probably won’t finish it before we see the film.
“A Wrinkle in Time: A Guide to the Universe” by Kari Sutherland and Vivien Wu is available here, $11.
So, this weekend you know where we’ll be. Hope you’ll be there too—watching and basking in all the black excellence that this movie will surely showcase.
**UPDATE: I took my daughter and her best friend to see the movie this past weekend. Ava absolutely LOVED it! She was blown away by the incredible graphics and inspired by the story line. She was also pretty thrilled to see her name on the big screen as the credits rolled. Who knows? Maybe there’s room for another director named “Ava.”
Below, watch the trailer:
Below, please find a couple of “A Wrinkle in Time” coloring pages and activities for your kids to enjoy!
Coloring pages:
Click here
Click here
Activity pages:
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Are you planning to see “A Wrinkle in Time” this weekend?
I just watched the trailer and it’s awesome.