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I don't think Elija was ever "gawky". It always seemed to me that he was one of those lucky few that matured gracefully, despite being in the public eye. Not like, Alyissa Milano, or something...now THAT'S gawky! Keep in mind, these child stars have to endure the pages of Teen Beat and the like. **whew** tough racket.
Sadie - maybe gawky is the wrong word for Elijah but I remember thinking that he was just the most beautiful, talented child...then around about the time of The Ice Storm and Deep Impact he was going through that difficult "plain" adolescent stage...which lets face it is NORMAL - your skin goes mad...you haven't quite grown onto your adult looks yet. As I think your post alluded to also, that can be a pretty tough trip when you are a young actor...so much of what you do is reliant on your looks - especially when you are in your teens. (I'm an Aussie so I'm not sure what Teen Beat is but I think I can make a pretty educated guess!! No doubt another quality publication aimed at our impressionable youth with tips on kissing and lip gloss...)
Cases in point... has anyone clapped eyes on Fred Savage from the Wonder Years recently? Or little Henry Thomas from ET? McCaulay Culkin? A cute kid does not necessarily a cute adult make... and by that I do not mean you have to be cute to be a good actor...but it always helps - especially these days with the constant teen-oriented drivel that seems to be everywhere.
I think basically we agree that Elijah has made the transition really well - he has emerged into adulthood with both looks and talent and has managed to make some fine films along the way.
Before I sign off, I'd like to bring up another talented actress who started off very young - Diane Lane. She was definitely making films when she was a child. I don't think she gets the credit she deserves...she really is an exceptional actress with quite a range.
You got it! Same thing. 
