If you haven’t seen it, I encourage you to take the time for “The Ultimate Gift” showing through Thursday at the State Theatre in downtown Hutchinson.

I saw it for the second time last night and enjoyed it as much if not more than the first time I saw it.

“The Ultimate Gift” is the story of trust fund baby Jason Stevens who anticipates a big inheritance after his grandfather dies. Instead of cash, his grandfather gives him something better: a crash course on life with a series of gifts designed to challenge Jason in improbable ways, sending him on a journey of self-discovery and forcing him to determine what is most important in life.

Abigail Breslin, who was nominated for an Academy Award this year for her performance in "Little Miss Sunshine," absolutely steals this movie. She's wonderful as a young girl who needs to pack in as much into her life as she can.

This film is funny, touching and packs a positive message. It’s a highlight in a season of special-effects, testosterone-fueled big-budget movies.

Starring Drew Fuller, James Garner, Ali Hillis, Abigail Breslin, Lee Meriwether, Brian Dennehy and Bill Cobbs. Rated PG.

(Kay Johnson is a staff writer at the Hutchinson Leader. She can be reached at johnson@hutchinsonleader.com [2])