The Umpire

198517 minFilm: Fiction, Children's film

Direction: Paul Shapiro

Production: John KramerJohn Spotton

Script: Paul ShapiroJack Blum

This short dramatic film for children, told from the point of view of a nine-year-old boy, explores the subject of parental separation. Intended to promote discussion and encourage children to express their feelings, the story is set on the morning that Phillip Hudson learns his parents are splitting up. When his father's absence puts the Saturday morning baseball game in jeopardy, Phillip's determination saves the day. In a warm and entertaining fashion, The Umpire shows a boy dealing with a painful situation in a resourceful and constructive way.

Availability


Other versions


Subject categories


  • Psychology and Psychiatry > ChildrenCoping with ProblemsEmotional LifeFamily Life
  • Families > ChildrenDivorce and Separation
  • Children and Youth > Divorce and Separation

Credits


director
Paul Shapiro
producer
John Kramer
executive producer
John Spotton
script
Paul Shapiro
Jack Blum
cinematography
Rene Ohashi
sound
Tom Hidderley
editing
James Lahti
re-recording
Wally Weaver
music
Jonathan Goldsmith
cast
René Carlisle
Keith Dutson
Michael Fantini
Ian Heath
Arlene Mazerolle
Paul Carswell
Tony Cotroneo
Jeff Chong
Shay Kangro
Jason Kramer
Dorion Davis
Michael Moore
Richard Mills
Jeremiah McCann

Awards


  • First Place - Category: Human RelationsNational Educational Media Network Competition
  • Red Ribbon Award - Category: Children's FictionItinerant - American Film and Video Festival