Review of Boy A (2008) by Sebastian J — 26 Jul 2008

No wonder Harvey Weinstein is "on the ropes". Amidst talk that the legendary movie producer is having financial problems, his studio quietly ushers this brilliant dark drama into theaters. Unless you have been checking IMDB, you are probably unaware of it's existence.

This is a shame, because this absorbing indie exceeded my modest expectations. I love a good film where the lead character assumes a fake identity, a la The Talented Mr. Ripley. In this instance, our young protagonist is forced to change his name and background in order to avoid a public lynching.

He is fresh out of a stint in youth prison for the manslaughter of a fellow student. When we first meet Jack, he is like a stray puppy. He is like an open wound as he tries to navigate his situation. This Brit flick would have fallen on its face without a strong leading performance.

But thankfully newcomer Andrew Garfield has an authentic aura that sells the plot points. The story is told in flashbacks, and you slowly put together the pieces of the crime. If this sounds rather grim, it's not at first.

Early in his rehabilitation, things are going very well for this damaged young man. He manages to connect with a new clique that includes female companionship. A nightclub scene captures a crazy night on the town.

But the ominous music lets you know the good times won't last. And he keeps having nightmares about his partner in crime who succumbed to suicide. You'd have to be a fool to think he may live happily ever after.

But the visual style and expert pacing keep things lively to the bitter end. And I didn't find the downbeat mood to be depressing. At the end of the wicked journey, it makes you contemplate society and it's attitude towards redemption.

A wild ride with a thought-provoking premise. Harvey should promote the hell out of this hidden gem.