Adapted from Katherine Paterson’s beloved 1977 novel, “Bridge to Terabithia” weaves an enchanting narrative that explores the bittersweet essence of childhood. The plot follows Jess Aarons, a 12-year-old aspiring artist, who experiences a significant shift in his life upon meeting Leslie Burke, a spirited new student at his school and his new neighbor. Initially, Jess resents Leslie for besting him in a school race, but her appreciation for his art slowly transforms their relationship.

Their friendship blossoms as they venture into the woods, discovering a rope swing across a creek and an old treehouse. These discoveries become the foundation for Terabithia, the fantastical kingdom they conjure together. Within this realm, they encounter mythical creatures like monsters, giants, and trolls, while their shared adventures deepen their connection. Yet, this idyllic expression of childhood imagination takes a tragic turn.

In a heart-wrenching twist, Jess, away on a spontaneous school trip, learns that Leslie has ventured alone to Terabithia. The rope snaps, leading to a fatal accident as Leslie falls into the creek. Her death, though not shown on screen, leaves Jess grappling with profound grief and guilt. This storyline is rooted in a real-life tragedy that inspired Katherine Paterson to write the novel.

In the film, when Jess goes on an impromptu field trip with his teacher, Leslie decides to go to Terabithia alone. The rope over the creek breaks. Leslie hits her head, falls into the creek, and dies. Though her death happens offscreen, it’s utterly heartbreaking, as Jess struggles with guilt and sorrow. What you may not know is that the story of “Bridge to Terabithia” was born out of a real-life tragedy.

Katherine Paterson’s son David had a best friend, Lisa Hill, who was struck and killed by lightning when they were both just eight. David, who penned the screenplay for the film, told Entertainment Weekly that his mother wrote the book to “make sense of something that didn’t make a whole lot of sense.” Today, David sees the film as a tribute to Hill. “It took me many years to realize that my friendship was a true gift from my friend, and what she gave me, I possibly can help give to others — meaning the film.” 

Children and grown-ups alike adore “Bridge to Terabithia” in spite of the heartbreaking ending, and it remains critically acclaimed, with a Certified Fresh score of 85% on Rotten Tomatoes. However, it was the cause of some controversy upon its release, as some people complained that the film was marketed as something totally different. If you go into it expecting a light-hearted fantasy flick, it will certainly be a shock to the system. But if you take “Bridge to Terabithia” for what it is — a deeply-moving portrayal of love and loss through the eyes of adolescents — then you won’t be disappointed.