As one other IMDb user noted here, this is a movie that would most likely not be made today. It's lacking in cynical attitudes and razzle- dazzle flash. But being raised in the era that this movie was made, I could appreciate the movie's sweet and gentle tone. I also thought that the cast did a very good job in making their characters believable and sympathetic.Still, this movie is far from perfect. A big problem I had was with the movie's length - it is almost two hours long. Though it could have been worse, since there is evidence here that the original cut of the movie ran much longer and was whittled down in the editing room to its present length. (Evidence: the bullies that show up in the first few minutes of the movie subsequently disappear for more than an hour before showing up again.) Also, the movie seemed to be spinning its wheels over and over, with one scene after another advancing the plot little or not at all.This isn't a BAD movie - it has charm and warmth - but I think director/writer Nick Castle should have either reviewed his script a few more times before filming, or invited outside input to review the script.

This is one of my favorite childhood films. The acting and story are so genuine. Looking at it now, as an adult, I can see many other technical things about it that really make this film stand out. The camera shots are amazingly well done; in some cases without cuts. Cleverly done, indeed. The music score is absolutely marvelous with complex use of the orchestra's wind section. Made in the day of mass electrification of music scores, this movie has a tasteful mix of electronic sounds.The supporting actors are so powerful in this film. They were more recognizable than the leads, but really help push the story forward with very realistic performances. A good supporting cast can make relatively unknown actors into stars. This is a formula that has worked for other really famous movies (anyone remember Star Wars?).We need more films like this. -Marcus

The boy who could fly was and still is one of my favourite films and my feelings about this film haven't changed since. It opens as Millie and her family are starting there new life in town and moving in to their new home. As they are settling in Millie sees a boy called Eric he lives just opposite her he doesn't speak and shows no emotions. But one thing he can do is fly. Millie befriends him and tries to get to know him better and slowly he begins to open up to her. They fall in love and it's so sweet and heart warming This is an underrated gem from the 80's.Some people may have missed this film but I recommend it to anyone looking for something with a heart and a great story. The music by Bruce Broughton is just beautiful and wonderful and the song in the closing credits walking on air is just fantastic. This film has a positive message about dreams and believing that things can happen it's one of the best films I've ever seen. They just don't make films like this anymore.

I started watching this on Optus Greats yesterday and i liked it so i ended up watching all of it. I think its one of the best 80's family movies, and i'm not a big fan of 80's family movies. Acting was great, especially by the young kid playing eric. He even got to kiss that young chick Milly. She's not bad looking except for the hair. Fred Savage was great, i liked his first day at school. I can't believe this but i almost cried at the end of this flick, but it would have been worth it as it is a very heartwarming story.