Fred Rogers on the set of ‘Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood.’
“Love is at the root of everything, all learning, all relationships, love or the lack of it.”
— Fred Rogers
In Won’t You Be My Neighbor?, director Morgan Neville’s reveals the inner workings of Fred Rogers and why his public television show for children defied the odds to be a hit that not only became a perennial favorite but had meaning, depth, and influence. Using footage from the show and Rogers’ home movies and interviews with Rogers, his family, and cast members, Neville pulls together everything but Roger and why his show succeeded despite going against what all the demographics at the time said children wanted.
Fred Rogers with co-star Daniel Striped Tiger from ‘Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood.’
While some laughed at way Fred opened every show with a smile, changing into indoor shoes and a friendly cardigan, singing his signature song inviting everyone to be his neighbor, there was more depth than most gave Rogers credit for. After the assassination of Robert Kennedy, Rogers devoted a whole week to death because young children, his primary audience, probably heard a much and had little explained to them. Rogers even returned to TV for a special after 911 and offered much-needed comfort. He didn’t shy away from controversial topics, such as racial prejudice, economic inequality, and divorce. With love and compassion, he tackled it all.
Of particular note, Roger’s motto, “I love you just as you are,” being refuted as the source of the everyone-gets-a-prize mentality. Awarding prizes without merit does a huge disservice to kids who may never find their own special talents, to the ones who need to learn the about determination and hard work, and to those who should develop their natural talents. The love Rogers spoke of was also rooted in honesty and kindness.
For those with fond memories of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood, this documentary will be a welcome, nostalgic, and sentimental trip down memory lane. For the fans and others not familiar Rogers; reasoning and body of his work, the film will open their eyes to the depth of thought, understanding, tolerance, and love behind Fred Rogers famed show. His wife, Joanne, and his sons, and Lady Aberlin (Betty Aberlin), Officer Clemmons (François Scarborough Clemmons), Yo-Yo Ma, and many more provide insight into the man and the mystique of Fred Rogers. Rated PG-13 for some thematic elements and language and running 94 minutes, Won’t You Be My Neighbor?, a Focus Features release, won’t disappoint.
Mr. McFeely (David Newell), the delivery man, and Fred Rogers in ‘Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood.’
