It’s no surprise that in these divisive times a movie documentary about the quiet, compassionate, “Mr. Rogers” became a smash hit. Or that Tom Hanks played the man who, on 900 episodes of Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood, confronted the ills of our time with kindness and love.
An ordained minister, Fred Rogers considered his television show to be his ministry, leading one reviewer to write, “Mr. Rogers Neighborhood makes us feel safe, cared for, and valued. Wherever Mr. Rogers is, so is sanctuary.”
The Fred Rogers Institute was the prime resource for both the Documentary, and the major motion picture. (Yes, Tom Hanks spent time here doing research). It also features a small museum that displays Rogers’ four different colored sweaters – knitted by his mother. (Rogers alternated these sweaters every day and couldn’t differentiate due to his red-green color blindness).
You’ll also see puppets used on the show, plenty of photos, and quotes by Rogers and others about him. Fred Rogers died in 2003. He was, as many said, “an island of peace.” We sure could use him now.
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