Watch Digging to China

Digging to China is a 1997 coming-of-age drama film that explores themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery. The movie takes place in the rural South in the 1960s and stars Evan Rachel Wood as Harriet, a ten-year-old girl who dreams of escaping her troubled, poverty-stricken life. The story begins with Harriet living with her abusive father and mentally ill mother in a rundown house. She spends most of her days working at a diner to help support her family, but her real passion is storytelling - she loves to create and act out elaborate tales with her best friend, Ricky (played by Kevin Bacon). One day, Harriet and Ricky set out on a journey to find Harriet's estranged aunt (played by Mary Stuart Masterson), who they believe could offer a way out for Harriet. Along the way, they encounter a number of colorful characters and face various obstacles, all while deepening their bond and learning important life lessons. Throughout the film, Harriet reflects on her place in the world and her desire to escape her troubled life. She grapples with the harsh realities of poverty, abuse, and mental illness, all while trying to make sense of her own identity and place in the world. Despite the film's heavy subject matter, there are moments of levity and humor that balance out the more serious moments. The chemistry between Wood and Bacon is particularly notable, as their characters' friendship brings a sense of warmth and hope to the story. Overall, Digging to China is a poignant and thought-provoking film that offers an intimate look at the struggles and triumphs of childhood. The performances are powerful and the themes are universal, making it a timeless coming-of-age story that resonates with audiences of all ages.