A silly name for this film I think. But I’ve been trying to think of a better one without success. So that may have been the film makers problem. It refers to the name of a place for young people at risk – maybe the period they’re allowed to stay there. Set over only a few days, although by the end of the film it seems much longer. A lot happens! Great acting by everybody but especially the two leads – Brie Larson and John Gallagher Junior – Grace and Mason. These are two of the carers at the centre and they’re also in a relationship outside of work. Something they keep quiet – but which we, and they, discover the kids know all about.
We drop into their lives mid-stream. And slowly learn their back stories. True to life we find similarities between their histories and those in their care. This leads to some fraught moments as they negotiate their life together. It’s all so real. Very contemporary. The phone rings at their house and Mason mutters, Who rings on landlines any more? Institutions as it happens, bringing Grace’s past into the present. Conversations are scrappy, things not said mean a lot. Gestures and expressions convey more meaning than mere words. A great script. Not over-written. Will they make it or won’t they? Things look pretty rocky. You really want things to work out between these two.
At the care centre you get the overall picture quickly. The boredom, nondescript bedrooms with doors always open and daily searches of the contents. The tyranny of the group – daily meetings, agreed activities. Rules and regulations. Remember we’re not their parents, we’re not their therapists Grace tells newcomer Nate. We bear this in mind as events unfold. The focus is on a couple of kids in particular – Marcus (Keith Stanfield) who’s about to leave and Jayden (Kaitlyn Dever) who’s just come. You really care about what happens to them. Marcus sings a great rap song he’s written – about living a normal life – or not. Very moving. Jayden’s story is essentially about trust. Who should the professionals believe – what evidence do they need? Who can she trust to open up to? She tells a beautiful little story she’s written -about an octopus and a shark. Beautiful – but so sad!
Despite the subject matter it’s not a grim film. Lots of humour, witty dialogue and some laugh out loud moments. Celebrations – wedding anniversaries, birthdays. And it’s nice to see the work of public sector professionals depicted on film. Honestly, respectfully and appreciatively. It’s noble work to help these young people get a foothold in the world. Which is how it comes across here. I loved everything about this film – except, perhaps, the title.
Here’s the trailer.
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