DIGGING TO CHINA

Cinemavixion Review

Timothy Hutton's directorial debut, "Digging to China," offers a poignant and tender portrait of childhood resilience and the unexpected solace found in human connection. The film centers on Harriet (Evan Rachel Wood, in a breakout performance), a precocious and imaginative ten-year-old navigating a challenging home life in rural New Hampshire, marked by an alcoholic mother and a sense of neglect. Her world, filled with dreams of fantastical escapes, is irrevocably altered by her burgeoning friendship with Ricky Schroth (Kevin Bacon), a mentally disabled man whose own life is touched by hardship. Wood imbues Harriet with a captivating blend of vulnerability and fierce independence, making her yearning for a world beyond her immediate circumstances palpable. Bacon, meanwhile, delivers a sensitive and nuanced performance as Ricky, avoiding caricature and instead revealing a gentle soul seeking understanding. The unlikely bond that forms between Harriet and Ricky becomes the emotional core of the film, exploring themes of acceptance, loss, and the multifaceted nature of family. While the film garnered a modest critical reception, with some praising its emotional depth and others finding its pacing deliberate, "Digging to China" remains a touching exploration of finding light in the darkest of places. Its quiet dignity and heartfelt performances make it a worthy discovery for those seeking character-driven dramas that resonate long after the credits roll.