The topic subject as described in the IMDb synopsis, then the storyline, basically cover what the movie is about and, as my choice for this review's title says, the opening scenes as well as the very last scene will probably make you think long and hard and you will remember those without a doubt.
The main character Vada is played by Jenna Ortega and I wasn't at all familiar with her but I will remember her name when I see it again. She delivered that good a performance. When you consider movies based on who the actors are it means they are good and have convinced you for one reason or another. Ms Ortega did.
A school shooting, in the context of 2021-2022 is a storyline which time has come, given the US leads all countries in mass shootings and especially school shootings. The statistics are incredible, but the experience itself needed to be exposed and the fallout conveyed. The movie's title is perfect. Perfect!
Some might debate the script's middle section, between the opening scenes and that very special last one, but regardless of what you think of the development, little prepares you for either. I'm almost sorry I spoiled it for you. Watch it anyway. Actors Julie Bowen and John Ortiz played Vada's parents and I was happy to see them in those roles, especially a scene with Vada and her dad when he finds the way to reach his lost daughter, who was lost, mentally speaking; it was a touching scene.
Another actor who's name I knew but not as actor, is co-star Maddie Ziegler. I didn't recognize her, even when a short clip of her dancing today was featured. When I later checked the performers names I thought to myself "What a coincidence!" It wasn't. It's Sia's video dancer acting on the big screen. Good for her, and what a difference a few years make.
I sincerely hope the movie has a social impact; I truly do. If anything, it is an excellent basis for reflection and appreciation for surviving victims' experiences. Dare I say it's a must view? I do.
The main character Vada is played by Jenna Ortega and I wasn't at all familiar with her but I will remember her name when I see it again. She delivered that good a performance. When you consider movies based on who the actors are it means they are good and have convinced you for one reason or another. Ms Ortega did.
A school shooting, in the context of 2021-2022 is a storyline which time has come, given the US leads all countries in mass shootings and especially school shootings. The statistics are incredible, but the experience itself needed to be exposed and the fallout conveyed. The movie's title is perfect. Perfect!
Some might debate the script's middle section, between the opening scenes and that very special last one, but regardless of what you think of the development, little prepares you for either. I'm almost sorry I spoiled it for you. Watch it anyway. Actors Julie Bowen and John Ortiz played Vada's parents and I was happy to see them in those roles, especially a scene with Vada and her dad when he finds the way to reach his lost daughter, who was lost, mentally speaking; it was a touching scene.
Another actor who's name I knew but not as actor, is co-star Maddie Ziegler. I didn't recognize her, even when a short clip of her dancing today was featured. When I later checked the performers names I thought to myself "What a coincidence!" It wasn't. It's Sia's video dancer acting on the big screen. Good for her, and what a difference a few years make.
I sincerely hope the movie has a social impact; I truly do. If anything, it is an excellent basis for reflection and appreciation for surviving victims' experiences. Dare I say it's a must view? I do.