“If” My Imaginary Friend

Today, I enjoyed watching the movie “If” with my kids, and I must say, it truly captivated me. The ending was both surprising and profoundly beautiful, leaving me with a warm feeling that lingered long after the credits rolled. 

I never anticipated the conclusion to unfold like that, but in retrospect, it all makes perfect sense. It resonated deeply with me, revealing the hidden “If” we all carry in our lives, even if we often overlook them. I can confidently say that this film is a delightful experience that invites reflection and appreciation for that imaginary friend in our lives.

The movie “If” is about a girl who discovers she can see everyone’s imaginary friends — and what she does with that superpower — as she embarks on a magical adventure to reconnect forgotten IFs with their kids.

Cast: 

• Cailey Fleming as Bea, a girl who can see IFs
• Ryan Reynolds as Cal, Bea’s neighbor who can also see IFs
• John Krasinski as Bea’s unnamed father
• Fiona Shaw as Bea’s grandmother

Surprisingly, the voice cast was composed of all my favorite actors:

• Emily Blunt as Unicorn[c], a plush unicorn IF with a pink and green mane
• George Clooney as Spaceman, an astronaut IF
• Bradley Cooper as Ice, an IF who resembles an anthropomorphic glass of ice water
• Matt Damon as Flower[d], an IF who resembles an anthropomorphic sunflower in a plaid suit
• Maya Rudolph as Ally, an anthropomorphic plush alligator IF

I still remember my imaginary friend from my childhood. He was a charming prince who lived in a castle across the river. In this enchanting world I created, I was a princess myself, complete with a lavish lifestyle. My bedroom was comparable in size to a ballroom, adorned with delicate blush-colored velvets draping over an enormous canopy bed that seemed fit for royalty. 

The walls were embellished with climbing roses, their fragrance filling the air with sweetness. On the opposite side of my room was a cozy library, overflowing with shelves that held an array of fairy tale books just waiting to whisk me away to magical lands. Scattered throughout the room were my beloved toys and dolls, showcasing a collection that brought my imagination to life. Among them was a magnificent dollhouse, so spacious that I could easily fit inside, inviting endless hours of play.

My bedroom featured a stunning balcony that offered a breathtaking view of a sprawling garden filled with vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and winding pathways.

Outside, my prince awaited me on a majestic pony, his eyes sparkling with excitement. He would patiently stand there, eager for me to join him for adventures, whether we were galloping through the picturesque garden or exploring the wonders of our imaginary kingdom together.

I forgot about my imaginary friend as I grew older. I began searching for real-life connections and people, but most of them disappointed me. I realized I had expected too much from others. Unfortunately, I continue to let myself down. My imaginary friend was the only one who never disappointed me. I realized that my imaginary friend had been a steadfast source of comfort, someone who never let me down. I pondered whether I had ever given him a name, but it seems I left that part of our bond unaddressed, a silent testament to our unbreakable connection.

Did you have an imaginary friend when you were a child? If so, please share your experience.

Cheers! 🌷