12 And Holding Reviews

“12 and holding” is another great movie directed by Michael Cuesta, who recently became my favorite movie director. If you are looking for a fine Coming out of Age story – chances are that that you will find it all in “12 and holding”. It is a simple story – without much special effects or famous actors playing – but the way the story is shown will make you remember what you’ve seen .One could say that the movie was disturbing – as it showed things most people would never want to happen to them or their kids – at the same time everything seems to real. One just couldn’t miss the exceptional performance of the young Conor Donovan who plays two roles – and does it so well, that I have to admit that I haven’t noticed that both boys are played by the same actor.

The soundtrack is extremely powerful – especially the melancholic music in some scenes. The theme song from it is called “Reckless burning” and it is performed by Jesse Sykes - most of the other songs from the soundtrack are performed by of Elysian Fields. I did not notice any flaws and felt quite related to the actors. My opinion that all viewers would able to sense something similar to what they felt when they were growing up – that sense of anger, or desire for revenge …or the will to protect your relatives and friends .

Despite of what some other reviewers wrote – I did not find the movie tough to watch – yes it deals with violence even death , but it does it in quite an unique way . 12 and holding an independent movie that conveys powerful messages.