Review of Snowmen

Billy (Bobby Coleman) is a fifth grader who has had cancer. His hair is missing but since he lives in northern Wisconsin, he can wear a ski cap most of the time. For some reason, Billy believes he is dying soon and that his Dad, Reggie (Ray Liotta), a local car salesman, is not telling him the truth in order to make his last days happier. It doesn't help Bill's life view when he finds a dead body, a man frozen in a snowbank. Fortunately, Billy has a long time friend Lucas who makes him laugh and, right away, he makes pals with a new kid, Howard, who has moved to this frozen land from JAMAICA! The trio makes snow forts, go ice skating and try to avoid the school bully. One day, Billy gets the brilliant idea that he would like to leave a mark on planet earth and set a Guinness World Record. What would it be? Making the most snowmen in one day. The kids make flyers and soon the principal at school is giving everyone the chance to join Billy to set this record! But, troubles arrive. First, the sun starts to shine a bit too much, causing melting. But, in addition, Billy's dad finds out his son has the misguided notion of his impending death when he is not dying at all! How will this all effect the chance to set a world record? This wonderful film has so many strengths. First, Coleman, who once starred in Martian Child, is a charmer with much talent. He makes Billy one believable kid. The rest of the cast, including Liotta, Christopher Lloyd, Doug E Doug and others, is quite wonderful, too. Next, the Wisconsin setting makes living in the snow look like fun, even when its probably arduous, and the film's story is lively and touching. However, it is a serious look at dying. Billy states at the beginning that this is a movie about his death and, even though this proves not quite true, it will generate a roller-coaster of emotions in everyone who watches it. Nevertheless, don't let this deter you from arranging a view with family and friends. Ultimately, 'sno joke that Snowmen is eight foot deep in fun.