The Kid with the Broken Halo

The Kid with the Broken Halo is a 1982 American made-for-television fantasy-comedy film. The film is a family-friendly mixture of comedy, fantasy, and drama filled with life lessons that transcend its era. Known for his iconic role on the television show "Diff'rent Strokes," Gary Coleman stars in this film as Andy LeBeau, a mischievous yet good-hearted boy.

The plot kicks off with Andy in heaven, given that he passed away a while back. Instead of wings and a clean halo, his halo is broken, representing his difficulty in adjusting to the serenity and tranquility of heaven given his playful and merry nature on Earth. His rebellious demeanor gets him into trouble with his heavenly supervisors, making his afterlife as full of challenges as his life on Earth. This sets the stage for a unique take on the age-old tale of angels and their interventions in human life.

Stellar performances from Robert Guillaume and June Allyson add depth and maturity to the narrative. Guillaume, famously known for the TV series "Benson," plays a supervisor angel who is assigned to tame Andy's playful nature and guide him on the path of becoming a full-fledged angel. Guillaume's performance is filled with patience, warmth, and bouts of frustration, which perfectly mirrors the kind of figure he is supposed to be in Andy's life.

June Allyson, a Golden Globe-winning actress known for her roles in "Little Women" and "The Glenn Miller Story," also stars, adding a touch of lovable nostalgia to the movie. She manifests the sage wisdom and old-fashioned charm, creating a beautiful contrast to Coleman's vivacious character.

In terms of narrative progression, the rebellious Andy is assigned to help three families on Earth. This, according to his supervisors, would help him earn his full angel status. These families are facing various problems, both interpersonal and societal. It's through this task that Andy's journey and the crux of the film fold out. His engagement with these families is not only entertaining but also poignant, giving this comedy-fantasy film its emotional charge and moral undertone.

Andy's mischievous ways at times add context to the comedy and at times drives the drama of the storyline. His out-of-the-box methods of solving the family's problems add a pinch of unpredictability and excitement to the plot. His involvement in their lives, even though at times detrimental, on most occasions brings a change that encourages viewers to dig deeper and find the underlying life philosophies.

The Kid with the Broken Halo adopts a lighthearted approach while tackling serious themes of loss, love, family troubles, and redemption. The film has something to offer every viewer irrespective of their taste in genre. Its fantasy elements are not overbearing, and it finds a perfect balance with its comedic elements, making it a wholesome and enjoyable watch.

Set in the early 80s, the film also gives a slice-of-life view of that era. From the fashion and pop culture references to the societal norms and values, the film is a nostalgic walk through that time. This backdrop enhances the appeal of the film, making it both a cultural and entertainment experience.

The film is also notable for the outstanding performance by Gary Coleman, who carries the role with a perfect blend of charm, innocence, and wit, reminding audiences of the credit he received for his role in "Diff'rent Strokes."

In conclusion, The Kid with the Broken Halo is more than just a family-comedy. It's a film that combines humor, fantasy, and life lessons in a light-hearted, absorbing manner. It's also a reflection of life, both on Earth and in the afterlife through unique narratives and unforgettable characters. Whether you're a fan of comedy, fantasy, or drama, The Kid with the Broken Halo has something to offer you.