The Book of Henry (2017)

The Book of Henry Poster

Susan, a single mother of two, works as a waitress in a small town. Her son, Henry, is an 11-year-old genius who not only manages the family finances but acts as emotional support for his mother and younger brother. When Henry discovers that the girl next door has a terrible secret, he implores Susan to take matters into her own hands.

Film Summary
"The Book of Henry" is a 2017 American drama film directed by Colin Trevorrow under the production of Sidney Kimmel Entertainment and Double Nickel Entertainment. The film stars Naomi Watts, Jaeden Martell, Jacob Tremblay, Sarah Silverman, and Maddie Ziegler.

The story revolves around the Carpenter family, which includes Susan (Naomi Watts), an overworked single mother; Henry (Jaeden Martell), her talented 11-year-old kid and his younger brother Peter (Jacob Tremblay). Henry is extremely smart and innovative, and he helps his mom with monetary affairs and looks after his more youthful brother.

Plot Summary
Henry has actually established sensations for his schoolmate, Christina (Maddie Ziegler), who lives next door, and is worried about her safety with her abusive cop stepfather, Glenn Sickleman (Dean Norris). Henry documents his plan to rescue Christina in a book.

Unfortunately, Henry is detected with a brain growth and passes away upon attempting to get run. After his death, his mother discovers the book, where Henry has actually thoroughly created a murder plan to eliminate Glenn and rescue Christina.

The Plan
Surprised by the discovery of the book, Susan at first decides to follow through on Henry's plan to conserve Christina, which involves sniping Glenn from the treehouse. The plan was carefully developed by Henry, accounting for information such as getting a gun, leaving no proof, and making sure his family is safe.

Failed Execution and Alternative Solution
The day Susan prepares to execute the strategy, she alters her mind upon hearing a recording made by Henry, where he concerns if it's right to eliminate. Rather, she exposes Glenn's abuse not utilizing murder, but by pulling strings at Christina's school skill show.

Throughout the skill program, Christina performs a psychological dance regimen that requires Glenn into the spotlight, which captures attention, resulting in him being separated and investigated. In an attempt to leave from the police, Glenn dedicates suicide.

Final Resolution
The film concludes with Susan and Peter adopting Christina and living a more stable life. Susan continues her role as a mother to both Peter and Christina and manages her finances wisely, inspired by Henry's techniques. Henry's death allows the family to grow and discover, making decisions not assisted exclusively by him but utilizing their spirits.

Conclusion
Overall, "The Book of Henry" is a gripping drama with turning points of family love, justice served right, and an important message that murder isn't the answer to problems. While the plans of a dying boy take a different route than meant, it changes the characters' lives for the much better, leaving the audience with a gratifying ending. Regardless of the awful setup, the film is a powerful narrative about love, loss, and stepping up when justice requires to be served.

Top Cast

  • Naomi Watts (small)
    Naomi Watts
    Susan Carpenter
  • Jaeden Martell (small)
    Jaeden Martell
    Henry Carpenter
  • Jacob Tremblay (small)
    Jacob Tremblay
    Peter Carpenter
  • Sarah Silverman (small)
    Sarah Silverman
    Sheila
  • Maddie Ziegler (small)
    Maddie Ziegler
    Christina Sickleman
  • Lee Pace (small)
    Lee Pace
    Dr. David Daniels
  • Dean Norris (small)
    Dean Norris
    Glenn Sickleman
  • Bobby Moynihan (small)
    Bobby Moynihan
    John
  • Tonya Pinkins (small)
    Tonya Pinkins
    Principal Wilder
  • Geraldine Hughes (small)
    Geraldine Hughes
    Mrs. Evans
  • Jackson Nicoll (small)
    Jackson Nicoll
    Morris