It's a supernatural thriller with an eerie edge that teeters precariously -- some moments warm, others disturbing. But, it's directed and acted so well, and really written to find the common family, that it feels very possible. The film succeeds at making us believe that a child can sense the spelling of a word, that the word will come to life behind her closed eyes and spell itself. Dandelion seeds float, drift around her head, chaise one after the other to form the letters of their English name.

Gere gives a good performance, but he's almost too likeable to make the whole piece really work. Still, the young performers, Flora Cross as the spelling bee wiz, but especially Max Minghella as her older brother, are so good, they make the story work despite other minor flaws.

The cinematography, direction and editing all conspire as well to bring us into the mood of each character, especially Juliette Binoche (as mom) as she dips from one frame of mind to another.

Despite being somewhat disjointed, I liked it overall. It's thought provoking and tense, with a sweet lovingness behind the tension. And though the sendoff is also sweetly subtle, I could have used just a tad more oomph or duration there.

This film screened at a Laemmle Theatre.