This week's theme was suggested by Wendell.
Matilda
Mr & Mrs Wormwood are famously some the worse parents in film and children's literature. Roald Dahl knew how to write a villain. We all know that Miss Trunchbull is the 'big baddie' of the story but The Wormwood parents are not far behind. Just focusing on the film, they neglect their daughter literally from day one when they leave her in the car. Ignoring her intelligence, hindering her chances of an education just so someone is around to take stolen packages. They most likely know Trunchbull was hideous but really don't care. To top it off, they are willing to let a stranger (to them, they only met Miss Honey once) adopt their daughter when they go on the run. I'm sure Matilda will need some therapy when she's older.
Gone Baby Gone
Helene McCready is a terrible mother. There is proof of this the whole way through the story. She doesn't really care what happened to her daughter, but she wants her back because she's hers, thats it. The little girl is neglected and her aunt and uncle love her, they love her so much, they'd prefer to see he out of harms way and not see her again just so she is safe. The decision at the end is difficult, in some ways Patrick Kenzie makes the right decision in terms of the law BUT its not right for the little girl. Its a tough ending.
Magnolia
Take your pick of terrible parents! Child prodigy Stanley on the quiz show has the bleakest ending as its not resolved. His dad forces him to be on the show, making him study all the time, using the money he makes for himself. Stanley has a break down where he isn't even allowed to go to the bathroom and wets himself on air. His father doesn't care about him and ignores him when his son asks him to be nicer to him. Quiz show host Jimmy abused his daughter, Claudia is a now a drug addict. Former child quiz champion Donnie had all his money stolen by his parents. Disgusting motivational speaker Frank was abandoned by his father. Everyone is really messed up in the film, but for all but Stanley there is a glimmer of hope.
