How did you feel about the film Little Children?

I’ve seen this movie at least a dozen times, and every time, it leaves me sort of… irritated… and I have a few questions maybe some of you can give me your take on. spoilers ahead

First of all, I think Sarah’s inattentiveness to her daughter is disturbing. I also don’t understand how her relationship with Lucy actually deteriorated as things between her and Brad intensified, because Lucy and Aaron were their connection… their alibi/excuse if you will.

Second, am I right in saying that the accidents that happen to Brad and Sarah at the end – Lucy disappearing briefly and Brad taking a nasty fall from a skateboard – somehow make them realize they didn’t love each other? That’s the only thing I can think of that would make them go back on their plans. But if that’s the case… I don’t see how either one of those things is bad enough to make you realize you don’t love someone. That never quite clicked with me.

Okay, maybe it worked that way for Brad, because his relationship at home wasn’t like Sarah’s… his had potential to be fixed. But Sarah basically felt like her husband was cheating on her. So I get how she finally realized she loved Lucy and should be paying more attention to her, but I don’t get how she decides to leave Brad.

And as far as Ronnie McGorvey… I don’t understand much how that ties into the Sarah and Brad thing. Am I missing something?

I’m usually good at picking up on things in movies, and understanding them. This one throws me a bit.