Ravi Sheth did an amazing job in the role of Kim in this WONDERFUL remake of an old B&W movie from 1950. I've seen the old B&W version but I MUCH prefer this one. The authenticity of the boy is central to making this movie really come alive and with Ravi this is achieved beautifully. Ravi and Peter O'Toole were so perfect in their roles and their scenes together are just magical. Bryan Brown also shone brightly in his role, very much fun to watch such great work by actors that look like they're enjoying themselves so much, I love when that happens on film. The original was a good movie, but this remake is an instant classic and these dusty characters were very much brought to life by these tremendous performances. Also the cinematography is very lovely and enchanting - some shots will just make you hold your breath, so beautifully framed are they, look for them and enjoy!
This one is HARD to find on video in the States. I first saw it while living in London in the mid 80s when it came out and I just loved it. I did manage to rent it in Phoenix once tho to show my brother, so it was out there at least at that time (mid 90s) so persevere and you may get lucky. If you can get hold of a copy of this version, definitely give it a try with young or old. The original may be hard for the young to follow, but this version is brought to life to such a higher degree that I find it much easier to follow the action. It's great for the whole family, it's riveting and beautifully acted and a classic in it's own right. You can watch it a dozen times and still get more and more out of it, that is why I recommend buying instead of renting if you are lucky enough to find a copy.
The only thing that makes it bearable that Ravi didn't continue acting is knowing that he's done so well for himself in real life and seems very happy. Still - for movie fans, the loss of his natural and charismatic acting is missed in all the films he wasn't in because he had a more important real life to get on with.
10 out of 10
