THE PRESENT is a fun, entertaining comedy about schooling your parents until they get it right – or until time runs out. It’s told from the children’s perspective and has dozens of familiar GROUNDHOG DAY moments to keep the momentum going.Â
THE PRESENT’s theme has real consequences and that creates tension among the Diehl kids. They must learn how to work together to succeed, and in the end,  trust is epically important. These are all invaluable lessons for children, so this film is truly family-friendly. The writers knew when to stop making their point before audiences were hit too hard and eyes began rolling in disdain. It was a lovely and charming balance of give-and-take for people of all ages.Â
Isla Fisher and Greg Kinnear as the parents were the comedic relief. They were believable in their roles and offered the necessary silly angst guided by repetitive seconds of the clock. They continually cracked me up as each scenario played out in the worst, hilarious way.Â
THE PRESENT would be a good gift for the entire family on movie night. Changing how households perceive events is the key to any long-lasting relationships, and THE PRESENT is a treasure chest of valuable insight.Â