Seen recently at Film Streams
I thought part of having kids meant loving them for who they are and encouraging them to achieve their dreams, not yours. Apparently, this view is not shared by all.
Kim Wayans, known for her comedic timing, waited until age 50 to tackle her first dramatic role. Her performance is raw, honest and unflinching as the mother of the conflicted teen (Adepero Oduye) - I'm sure her agent's office is piling up with serious scripts. I have no idea where writer/director Dee Rees found the rest of the cast, but they all deliver in their respective roles. Charles Parnell, an All My Children alum - of all things, is nothing short of mesmerizing as the supportive parent.
Despite the highly charged subject matter, the film manages to avoid being heavy-handed or preachy - it's a collection of small, seemingly real moments that add up to a powerful story about the family dynamic. It also subtly recognizes those rare teachers who equip their students with the courage to transcend incomprehensible circumstances.
See this one and talk about it with your kids.
Bonus Bones: 0
No dogs in this one, which isn't surprising, given the temperament of Audrey (Kim Wayans).
