H Is for Happiness

H Is for Happiness is an Australian family comedy-drama film that follows the story of a 12-year-old girl named Candice Phee, played by Daisy Axon. Candice is an optimistic and curious young girl who is always trying to bring happiness to those around her. However, her family is struggling with various problems, including her parents' marriage issues and her mother's depression. On top of that, Candice must deal with her own struggles as she tries to find the solution to the one problem she thinks will solve everything - making her parents happy again.

The film is set in a fictional coastal town in Western Australia, where Candice lives with her family. The town is a charming and picturesque place, filled with quirky characters, from her eccentric grandfather played by Richard Roxburgh to her wisecracking teacher, Miss Bamford played by Miriam Margolyes. Candice finds herself drawn to Miss Bamford, who encourages Candice's love of words and writing, and becomes her confidant as she navigates the challenges of her family life.

Despite the difficulties she faces, Candice remains relentlessly optimistic and determined to bring happiness to her family. She creates a plan to help her parents, but her well-intentioned efforts lead to unintended consequences, causing her to question whether her mission to make everyone happy is worth it. Along the way, Candice learns valuable lessons about love, acceptance, and appreciating the present moment.

Daisy Axon shines in her role as Candice, showcasing a natural talent and charm that makes her character instantly likable. Miriam Margolyes is delightful as Miss Bamford, injecting the film with a dose of humor and wisdom. The film also features strong performances from Alessandra Tognini as Candice's best friend, Douglas and Emma Booth and Joel Jackson as Candice's parents.

The film is directed by John Sheedy and written by Lisa Hoppe, based on the award-winning book My Life as an Alphabet by Barry Jonsberg. The movie's themes of resilience, empathy, and the power of words make it a heartwarming and uplifting film for all ages. It's a relatable story that tackles real-world issues with a sense of humor and a positive outlook, reminding us that happiness is within reach if we choose to see it.

Overall, H Is for Happiness is a charming and uplifting film that is perfect for the entire family. It's a feel-good movie that tackles tough issues with humor and heart, making it a must-see for anyone who loves a good story of hope and resilience.