When I first heard that the movie "was unable to get a US DVD release due to insufficient funds" that pretty much set the tone for what to expect; lacking. However, after being impressed by Robb's performance in Teribithia, this movie got me curious. The delivery of dialogue felt weak and scripted; a usual flaw w/ many child actors. This did however lend the young characters a "broken" feel to them, which is reflected by their upbringings, so it felt justified. I did enjoy the poor charm of the characters. Sleeping in a pig sty, the engagement ring being a piece of wire; the same clothes used throughout the entire duration of the film. It sets the stage quite nicely for the upcoming drama that is about to unfold upon our beloved young actors. When we finally learn the reason for Cass's trauma, I must admit I wasn't as surprised as I had hoped to be. I knew that she had something to do with the accident, and I even knew that it had to be some form of sexual abuse.
What got me the most out of the entire film was the scene where Ben finally reaches Cass after evading several psychiatric wards. At this point I didn't know what Cass was going to be like. When he approaches her I was expecting and somewhat hoping for a violent encounter. But what what got instead was a mellowed-out, severely depressed Cass. I had goosebumps when Cass looked up to Ben with her dark gloomy eyes.
On the whole, the movie finishes what it starts with nothing left hanging. It's a humble film with nothing to show off for. It delivers a heartwarming tale of lost innocence, family issues, the pursuit of happiness, all that good stuff you would expect from this sort of film. It is pretty hard to come by in the states which I find utterly ironic and somewhat disappointing. The latter being due to the fact that I saw some potential acting ability from these rising young actors. If you happen to come across it, check it out. Definitely an underrated film that deserved more than just a film festival spot and Brazilian-only DVD release.
What got me the most out of the entire film was the scene where Ben finally reaches Cass after evading several psychiatric wards. At this point I didn't know what Cass was going to be like. When he approaches her I was expecting and somewhat hoping for a violent encounter. But what what got instead was a mellowed-out, severely depressed Cass. I had goosebumps when Cass looked up to Ben with her dark gloomy eyes.
On the whole, the movie finishes what it starts with nothing left hanging. It's a humble film with nothing to show off for. It delivers a heartwarming tale of lost innocence, family issues, the pursuit of happiness, all that good stuff you would expect from this sort of film. It is pretty hard to come by in the states which I find utterly ironic and somewhat disappointing. The latter being due to the fact that I saw some potential acting ability from these rising young actors. If you happen to come across it, check it out. Definitely an underrated film that deserved more than just a film festival spot and Brazilian-only DVD release.