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Pay It Forward (2000)
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Overview
User Rating:
Director:
Writers (WGA):
Release Date:
20 October 2000 (USA)
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Tagline:
Like some other kids, 12-year-old Trevor McKinney believed in the goodness of human nature. Like many other kids, he was determined to change the world for the better. Unlike most other kids, he succeeded. more
Plot:
A young boy attempts to make the world a better place after his teacher gives him that chance. full summary | full synopsis
Plot Keywords:
Teacher
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Young Boy
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Good Deed
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Alcoholism
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Exotic Dancer
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Awards:
1 win
&
3 nominations
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NewsDesk:
(22 articles)
Jon Bon Jovi 'rules out return to acting'
(From digitalspy. 10 November 2009, 4:48 PM, PST)
Jon Bon Jovi: 'I don't like Hollywood'
(From digitalspy. 23 October 2009, 11:16 PM, PDT)
(From digitalspy. 10 November 2009, 4:48 PM, PST)
Jon Bon Jovi: 'I don't like Hollywood'
(From digitalspy. 23 October 2009, 11:16 PM, PDT)
User Comments:
Despite the shortcomings - well played and at times inspiring
more (627 total)
Cast
(Cast overview, first billed only) | Kevin Spacey | ... | Eugene Simonet |
 | Helen Hunt | ... | Arlene McKinney |
 | Haley Joel Osment | ... | Trevor McKinney |
 | Jay Mohr | ... | Chris Chandler |
 | James Caviezel | ... | Jerry |
 | Jon Bon Jovi | ... | Ricky McKinney |
 | Angie Dickinson | ... | Grace |
 | David Ramsey | ... | Sidney Parker |
 | Gary Werntz | ... | Mr. Thorsen |
 | Colleen Flynn | ... | Woman on Bridge |
| Marc Donato | ... | Adam |
| Kathleen Wilhoite | ... | Bonnie |
| Liza Snyder | ... | Michelle |
| Jeannetta Arnette | ... | Nurse |
| Hannah Werntz | ... | Thorsen's Daughter |
Additional Details
MPAA:
Rated PG-13 for mature thematic elements including substance abuse/recovery, some sexual situations, language and brief violence
Parents Guide:
Runtime:
123 min
Country:
Language:
Colour:
Colour (Technicolor)
Aspect Ratio:
1.85 : 1 more
Sound Mix:
Certification:
Iceland:10 |
Malaysia:U |
Canada:14 (Nova Scotia) |
Canada:14A (Manitoba) |
Canada:G (Quebec) |
Canada:PG (Alberta/British Columbia/Ontario) |
South Korea:12 |
Philippines:PG-13 |
Argentina:13 |
Australia:M |
Chile:14 |
Denmark:11 |
Finland:K-11 |
France:U |
Germany:12 (w) |
Hong Kong:IIA |
Netherlands:12 |
New Zealand:M |
Norway:11 |
Peru:14 |
Portugal:M/12 |
Singapore:PG |
Spain:T |
Sweden:11 |
Switzerland:12 (canton of Geneva) |
Switzerland:12 (canton of Vaud) |
UK:12 |
USA:PG-13
Filming Locations:
Company:
Fun Stuff
Trivia:
Trevor is supposed to be in Jr. High School. However, the school scenes were filmed at Centennial High School in North Las Vegas.
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Goofs:
Errors in geography: When Kevin Spacey's character is driving to Trevor's house to talk with his mom, the Seattle Space Needle is clearly visible in the background, as is the Washington state license plate on the front of his Jeep Cherokee. Also, when Spacey pulls into the driveway and parks the Cherokee, a Klieg light is visible in the vent window on the passenger side door.
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Movie Connections:
Referenced in "Family Guy: Brian Sings & Swings (#4.19)" (2006)
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Soundtrack:
Last Resort
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FAQ
This FAQ is empty. Add the first question.more (627 total)
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I remember leaving the cinema, feeling very much let down by the end of "Pay it Forward". Watching it recently on television I find myself far more forgiving since it's a movie with a sincere and important message, expressed with conviction. The quasi-religious ending probably will appeal to many, but from an artistic viewpoint, it seems unnecessary and not entirely suited to the tone of the film up to that point.
Kevin Spacey is effective as the suppressed, sensitive teacher, while Helen Hunt is terrific, despite the role being far too close for comfort with her "As Good As It Gets" character. But it's Hailey Joel Osment's wonderful portrayal that gives "Pay It Forward" much of its power. He simply is perfect for the part. (Good to see Angie Dickenson, braving it in the role of a homeless alcoholic).
At its best, this is a film which may just do the impossible: inspiring one to good deeds, without expectation of reward or remuneration. That alone is a substantial achievement.