book to understand why Mrs. Tate abused him. Davenport does not intend to justify her actions, but he seeks to help Antwone understand where her mentality of beatings and verbal abuse to keep the foster children subservient came from. Antwone is seen briefly reading the book in the next scene. Reception Author's reaction to the film When I saw the film for the first time, I was overwhelmed by a mixture of feelings: fear, joy, pride and satisfaction—all of which still linger, and I am certain they will for the rest of my life. I hope others, too, walk away with those same feelings and the courage to do something to better the lives of children in general. I hope that after seeing the movie and reading my memoir that people will see that every child has value and boundless potential and that even if all one has to give is an encouraging word as a genuine gesture of care. ... that gift alone can save a child's life and give hope for the future. — Antwone Fisher Critical response Review aggregate website Rotten Tomatoes reports 78% of critics reviewed the film positively, based on 150 reviews. The website's critic consensus says, "Washington's directing debut is a solidly crafted, emotionally touching work." Metacritic gave the movie a score of 62 based on 30 reviews, indicating "generally favorable reviews". Audiences polled by CinemaScore gave the film a rare "A+" grade. Praise was given especially towards Washington's directing and Luke's performance. Moira Macdonald of The Seattle Times wrote, "There's a simplicity and heart to Antwone Fisher, Denzel Washington's directing debut, that's extremely appealing; the emotional wallop of the movie sneaks up on you, despite its entirely predictable trajectory." Awards Bibliography References External links 2002 films 2002 biographical drama films African-American biographical dramas African-American films American coming-of-age drama films American romantic drama films 2000s coming-of-age drama films 2002 romantic drama films Films about child abuse Films about child sexual abuse Drama films based on actual events Films based on autobiographies Films about the United States Navy Films about adoption Films directed by Denzel Washington Films set in Cleveland Films shot in Cleveland 20th Century Fox films Fox Searchlight Pictures films 2002 independent films Films produced by Denzel Washington Films scored by Mychael Danna 2002 directorial debut films 2000s English-language films 2000s American films