Based on one of the most popular novel for youth and adult of every age, Standing Up is about two children, who are stripped and left together on an island - the victim of a hoax camp. But instead of having to go back to camp and facing the humiliation, they decide to go out, run away together. And an adventure is opened...
The film's pathos at times seems all-consuming, to where a little more suspense along the way might have helped hold the attention of younger viewers.
Marsha McCreadie
RogerEbert.com
August 16, 2013
"Standing Up" is mildly entertaining. Basso picks up steam as the movie moves ahead, but for the first third or so she seems to display only whininess.
It's unclear who this blandly titled drama is aimed at--devoid as it is of humor or any real hazard and lacking the provocative undertones of its source material.
Ending aches to extract tears, yet it's a mild manipulation, and one that's earned by this kindly, thoughtful drama -- a comfortable alternative for families burned out on animated releases.
