It's hard to believe that this is a debut film, given its power to rivet and sear. What is also amazing is Eliran Elya's use of non-actors, real kids who play the kind of at-risk kids that the film maker himself knows all too well, having come from such an environment. The authenticity shines. The dialogue of the teens and their interactions are frighteningly true. The well-known Israeli actor, Ran Danker, who plays the film-making teacher in DOUBTFUL physically resembles Elya and does a wonderful job of portraying both frustration and patience. That this film is based on a true story makes it even more poignant. It deserves to be viewed for its own artistic merit but can be an eye-opening guide to those who have never had to encounter teenagers in serious danger of being forever unable to live a normal, fulfilling life.
