Little Man Tate

(Jodie Foster, US 1991, 99 min., 35mm)

Jodie Foster’s directorial debut is this heartwarming story of a mother-child relationship. Dede Tate (Foster herself) has known for years that her son, Fred (Adam Hann-Byrd) is a genius. As a single, working mother without her own higher education, she seeks ways for Fred to shine academically while also trying to make friends and be a “normal” kid. When Fred comes to the attention of Jane Grierson (Dianne Wiest), the head of a prestigious school for exceptional children, a battle of wills ensues between Dede and Jane about what is best for Fred. A soft color palette and intimate family scenes suggest a director who has only tapped the beginnings of a talent yet to come.