The trailer for this movie looked really good, so I rented it this weekend. The Good: The story-line for this movie is actually quite creative. The overall thoughts about reincarnation were thought provoking. I thought that Oak (Tommy Ragen) did a really good job acting for a very young man. Taylor (Raven-Symone) was also quite good. Now the Bad: There was so much bad, especially if you were able to watch the whole thing. The production value was akin to a Lifetime Movie that never made it on air. So much bad acting, Darby (Ben Milliken) was horrible, and his character wasn't even needed in the story. Everybody else was just about as bad. But the standout bad actors were the Grandparents. Looked like they were reading from cue cards. Another notable bad acting job was from Valerie (Alexa PenaVega). She is supposed to be some heroin addict, but her whole house always seemed quite tidy, including her bed. She also had a scar on her head that was presumably from 10 years ago, but it looked like it was still bleeding. They mention the value of the guitar as $3000. They mention this no less than 15 times during the movie for some reason. Every time they talk about the guitar, it has to be mentioned that it is worth $3000. Don't waste your money on this.
13 Reviews
An unfortunate message from a confused movie
habakukofice30 July 2020
Warning: Spoilers
Oak is a kid who can play the guitar quite well. But he's not really the main character of this movie. The real main character is a girl who thinks Oak is the reincarnation of her dead brother. Her brother was in a band, which she managed, and after his death she went completely insane. She was sectioned and she attempted suicide. This is a decent set up for a movie. She can have some character growth, get over her grief, maybe help Oak through his problems. He's bullied at school and his mother is a drug addict, so they could help each other deal emotionally with their struggles.
That's not what happens.
I'm going to jump straight to the end of the film, because that's my problem with this film, the ending. They've been setting up this ending where she gets over the death of her brother and moves on with her life, and Oak goes off to be a normal kid with his grandparents, after his mother's death. Instead, the insane woman fakes documents giving herself custody of Oak, and this is presented as an entirely positive development. Admittedly, his grandparents are unpleasant and authoritarian, but probably still better than a gambling addicted rock roadie. Then, with no warning, it turns out that he really is the reincarnated brother, and the movie ends with a reproduction of the opening scene, but with the kid replacing the brother. There's also a coda where she's back with the man who dumped her because of her obsession with her dead brother, and shes pregnant now, too.
Normally the pregnancy would be symbolic of her moving on with her life after the brother's death, but here it's the opposite, it symbolises that she's happy to be creepily obsessed with a small boy who is the reincarnation of her brother, and it's so stupid.
It's a weird and pointless ending, and it really doesn't make any sense. Apart from that the movie is fine. Good cast, decent child actors, well shot. The twist ending is just a real problem.
That's not what happens.
I'm going to jump straight to the end of the film, because that's my problem with this film, the ending. They've been setting up this ending where she gets over the death of her brother and moves on with her life, and Oak goes off to be a normal kid with his grandparents, after his mother's death. Instead, the insane woman fakes documents giving herself custody of Oak, and this is presented as an entirely positive development. Admittedly, his grandparents are unpleasant and authoritarian, but probably still better than a gambling addicted rock roadie. Then, with no warning, it turns out that he really is the reincarnated brother, and the movie ends with a reproduction of the opening scene, but with the kid replacing the brother. There's also a coda where she's back with the man who dumped her because of her obsession with her dead brother, and shes pregnant now, too.
Normally the pregnancy would be symbolic of her moving on with her life after the brother's death, but here it's the opposite, it symbolises that she's happy to be creepily obsessed with a small boy who is the reincarnation of her brother, and it's so stupid.
It's a weird and pointless ending, and it really doesn't make any sense. Apart from that the movie is fine. Good cast, decent child actors, well shot. The twist ending is just a real problem.
An Emotional Trip
Mysterygeneration22 February 2024
A touching tale with some tonal inconsistencies that combines musical drama with themes of rebirth and mourning.
As Gina, Janel Parrish excels in capturing her sorrow and subsequent joyous rediscovery. As Oak, Tommy Ragen is a captivating character who exudes skill and innocence. With a cheerful and uplifting message, the film examines themes of healing, second chances, and the power of music. The original song creates a positive, upbeat vibe by fusing pop and rock music. All ages can enjoy it because of its good themes and playful character.
The film's abrupt transitions between drama, humor, and even fantasy might be unsettling at times. While not thoroughly explored, themes like loss and reincarnation are mentioned, which can leave some viewers disappointed. Because the narrative sticks to well-known cliches, even seasoned viewers will find it easy to predict. A few characters, especially those in the supporting cast, are still shallow and undeveloped.
It's best appreciated for its cheerful mood, appealing soundtrack, and endearing feelings; don't expect a thorough examination of its subject strands.
As Gina, Janel Parrish excels in capturing her sorrow and subsequent joyous rediscovery. As Oak, Tommy Ragen is a captivating character who exudes skill and innocence. With a cheerful and uplifting message, the film examines themes of healing, second chances, and the power of music. The original song creates a positive, upbeat vibe by fusing pop and rock music. All ages can enjoy it because of its good themes and playful character.
The film's abrupt transitions between drama, humor, and even fantasy might be unsettling at times. While not thoroughly explored, themes like loss and reincarnation are mentioned, which can leave some viewers disappointed. Because the narrative sticks to well-known cliches, even seasoned viewers will find it easy to predict. A few characters, especially those in the supporting cast, are still shallow and undeveloped.
It's best appreciated for its cheerful mood, appealing soundtrack, and endearing feelings; don't expect a thorough examination of its subject strands.
Movie Review: Mighty Oak
whatonwhatsgood18 November 2020
The filming by director Sean McNamara was well done. Pay close attention to the crash scene. They did a fantastic job.
There was also some great shots of Ocean Beach, California.
Now I must say off-the-bat that a few people might find the subject matter a bit different. The idea that a kid could be the reincarnation of someone's brother is a bit farfetched however I see what the writer was trying to do. I want to tip my hat to Tommy Ragen (Oak Scoggins). He had to deal with multiple emotions throughout the movie. When he lashed out at one point during the film, I can totally understand that.
If you really think about it Oak had to deal with a lot. In his life, he had a depressed music director, a sick mother, no father figure, and bullying at school. That's a lot to take on as a 10-year-old who only wanted to play music. Thankfully, over time he did develop some great friendships with a group of musicians and kids at school that kept him content.
The music was great and Oak can really play the guitar.
Final thoughts
Overall, I feel that 'Mighty Oak' is one to watch. You will appreciate the young talent in this film. Perhaps you will learn a) how people cope with loss, b) when to step in, c) the importance of listening to one another, or maybe d) how as a unit we can all help one another.
There was also some great shots of Ocean Beach, California.
Now I must say off-the-bat that a few people might find the subject matter a bit different. The idea that a kid could be the reincarnation of someone's brother is a bit farfetched however I see what the writer was trying to do. I want to tip my hat to Tommy Ragen (Oak Scoggins). He had to deal with multiple emotions throughout the movie. When he lashed out at one point during the film, I can totally understand that.
If you really think about it Oak had to deal with a lot. In his life, he had a depressed music director, a sick mother, no father figure, and bullying at school. That's a lot to take on as a 10-year-old who only wanted to play music. Thankfully, over time he did develop some great friendships with a group of musicians and kids at school that kept him content.
The music was great and Oak can really play the guitar.
Final thoughts
Overall, I feel that 'Mighty Oak' is one to watch. You will appreciate the young talent in this film. Perhaps you will learn a) how people cope with loss, b) when to step in, c) the importance of listening to one another, or maybe d) how as a unit we can all help one another.
Handsome Actor Ben Milliken in a great family musical movie.
paul-868101 April 2021
Gina and Vaughn are the sister and brother duo taking the SoCal music scene by storm with their band Army of Love. Gina "Jean Jacket" Jackson (Janel Parrish) is behind the scenes as the savvy and determined music manager while her talented brother Vaughn Jackson (Levi Dylan) is the gifted frontman of their popular band.
On the night of their biggest break yet, the siblings' bond is shattered when Vaughn is killed in a tragic car accident and Gina is unable to pick up the pieces of her life.
Ten years later, a 4th grade guitar prodigy named Oak Scoggins (Tommy Ragen) enters Gina's orbit, and she becomes convinced that this child must be the reincarnation of Vaughn. While Oak does have Vaughn's talent and some of his traits, Gina's friends become concerned with her decision to re-launch their long dormant band with Oak as the frontman taking Vaughn's place.
Oak comes from a disadvantaged household and as he is thrust into the spotlight, he finds that music is the perfect escape and the much needed outlet for his pain. Gina in turn finds an outlet for her grief and a way back into living life out loud and to the fullest.
On the night of their biggest break yet, the siblings' bond is shattered when Vaughn is killed in a tragic car accident and Gina is unable to pick up the pieces of her life.
Ten years later, a 4th grade guitar prodigy named Oak Scoggins (Tommy Ragen) enters Gina's orbit, and she becomes convinced that this child must be the reincarnation of Vaughn. While Oak does have Vaughn's talent and some of his traits, Gina's friends become concerned with her decision to re-launch their long dormant band with Oak as the frontman taking Vaughn's place.
Oak comes from a disadvantaged household and as he is thrust into the spotlight, he finds that music is the perfect escape and the much needed outlet for his pain. Gina in turn finds an outlet for her grief and a way back into living life out loud and to the fullest.
Family Movie
bfsjr-2658711 June 2020
If you want an uplifting story that the whole family can enjoy, this movie does that. I am a grandfather who went with my daughter and two grandchildren. I had not been to a drive-in since the 1960's. Tommy Ragen is special and the whole cast is great.
Get out and enjoy a heartwarming story.
A perfect 10
Exsosus230 December 2020
Rarely does a movie recieve a 10 by me, but I watched this with my girlfriend, and son and we were blown away. Its rare a film has all three rules of a 10/10 combined well within it: Love story, Plot, and lastly but most important, quality ending.
Great movie for kids and young adults
bryanator24 June 2020
Good performances
bepeneluppi1 November 2020
I, Origins meets Pay It Forward
barrelhousegutboy8 July 2020
Warning: Spoilers
Solid production value sporting a straight from the hip story with a side of transmigration. Think After School Special with a New Age instead of Christian flavor.
A disadvantaged 10 year old guitar prodigy falls in with the members of a band that broke up with the death of their frontman a decade ago. A terminally ill junkie mother, a band manager convinced he is her reincarnated brother, musical mentor, Chim Chim doodles, and a $3000 custom guitar all collide in the complicated 5th grade life of young Oak Scoggins. After a bit of a roller coaster ride and some sleight of hand the sun breaks from behind the clouds for a warm fuzzy finish. Good wholesome movie in 50's Disney form the whole family can enjoy. Recommended.
True, it's flawed but I really enjoyed it anyway
aharon-izraeli20 March 2021
I read the other reviews here after seeing the movie. I have to admit that it is pushing the limits of plausibility a little but it is, nevertheless, a very enjoyable movie. The actors were good and the music enjoyable. It's definitely worth a look, I gave it a chance and enjoyed it very much.
This Movie is Like No One Involved Has Ever Seen a Human Being Before
SeatontheAisle26 November 2020
I guess I'll applaud the effort, but I just can't pretend this is a good movie. It smells like they found a kid who could play guitar and sing and built a movie around him. Almost no interaction smells genuine or is believable. So many things provoke groans of disbelief. Opportunities to go deeper, by either cast or director, flash by unexplored. Maybe this movie is for 6 year olds, but even if that's the case, why not make a GOOD movie for them?
Don't waste your time.
Don't waste your time.
A POIGNANT GLIMPSE AT FRIENDS, FAMILY, LOVE & LOSS!
plasmapilot29 August 2021
I adore this beautiful film that embraced SO many emotions. Despite my previous unfamiliarity with these actors, I found the cast to be exceptional! The music & locations strongly influenced my appreciation as well. My knowledge of reincarnation was tastefully represented. From a legal standpoint there was one irregularity in that the BellyUp in Solana Beach serves alcohol & therefore disallows minors...BUT IT'S JUST A MOVIE! Overall I found this to be family friendly for 13 year olds & older with an opportunity for some important conversations. Life need not be a painful struggle, but in fact it often is! I actually cried it was so touching..
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