While Birdee's relationships with Justin and Ramona are pivotal, it is her bond with daughter Bernice that takes center stage. Mae Whitman, who impressed audiences with her roles as the President's daughter in "Independence Day" and as the offspring of a single father in the romantic comedy "One Fine Day," plays Bernice. The role was an extremely difficult, demanding role for a child, but Mae tackled it with a skill which impressed the filmmakers. "The astonishing thing was that there were so many first rate actresses to choose from," says Obst, remembering the casting process. "We saw six finalists who could have played this part impeccably, but Mae walked away with it. She's a remarkable actress."

PART I ][ PART II ][ PART III ][ PART IV

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