“The Ultimate Gift” is a wonderful movie based on a novel with the same name by Jim Stovall. It’s a story about gifts, relationships, life and love. The movie was made in 2006, but if you haven’t seen it — you definitely should. It’s rated PG for some thematic elements, some violence, language, etc. There are some definite sad moments, but it is a movie for families with older children to enjoy and share.
The movie centers around Jason Stevens (Drew Fuller), a self-absorbed “rich kid” who’s never had to work. Jason’s billionaire grandfather “Red” Stevens (played by James Garner) dies and Jason’s convinced he got nothing from the estate. He resents and even hates his grandfather because his father died while working for him. But, there is an inheritance for Jason — that comes with a catch. Jason has to complete a series of tasks to the satisfaction of Mr Hamilton (Bill Cobbs) the family attorney. Each month-long task (given to him via taped video messages) centers around a “gift”. If he completes them all, he gets the “ultimate” gift. Everyone assumes that will be a huge pile of money. In reality, the gifts along the way are definitely part of what his grandfather wanted him to have.
The movie doesn’t completely list all 12 gifts as they are in the book, but it does cover many and references or hints at the others. The gifts include work, friendship, value of money, family, learning, problems, giving and a few others.
Jason balks at taking this journey, and almost quits a number of times. He’s helped along the way by Mr. Hamilton, his secretary Miss Hastings (Lee Meriwether), and Gus the rancher (Brian Dennehy). And he’s helped by two people he meets — grade-school aged Emily (Abigail Breslin) and her mother Alexia (Ali Hillis). There’s plenty of suspense as the viewer isn’t sure whether Jason will finish the journey or even survive one situation.
Much of the story involves Jason’s growing relationship with Emily and Alexia. And Jason growing as a person. My favorite character was Emily, who we find out early on has cancer. Abigail Breslin did a wonderful job playing that role. Emily is mature beyond her years, insightful, tough, and strong. Yet she is still just a kid that fears dying. There are a number of funny moments in this film. Most center around Emily’s comments and actions.
Some may think the greed of Red’s sons/daughter or Jason’s girlfriend was a bit overdone, some of the plot elements expected, or some things that happened in the story too convenient. But, overall, the acting and story were very good. The film had several positive messages without beating them into you. It wasn’t “syrupy sweet” (despite there also being a Hallmark version). It’s a story about giving, about living for others, about things more important than money, and about forgiveness and love. It’s an inspiring story and on more than one occasion Jason “made someone’s day”. (i thought I’d throw in those links to previous posts )
As I said, it’s from 2006. It’s not in Redbox, but it is available on Amazon, Ebay and possibly in your local library. It’s worth trying to find and watching the movie with your family. After you do — think about this: Could you and would you have done what Jason did? Everything he did?. . . . Please leave your answers and other comments in the “Leave a Reply” section below.
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