Review of Holly (2006) by Lee B — 30 Apr 2011

I'm torn about this movie. On one hand, it is a very interesting production and well thought out story. On the other hand, it is a very blatant soapbox preaching session of a movie. It gets a little awkward when it transitions between, but is successful enough. However, I think this also makes you think and assume that the movie is going in one direction and kicks to another. And that isn't such a bad thing.

It has wonderful acting by everyone, even the supporting players. The girl is amazing and Ron Livingston really surprises with how great he can be. It is an obvious real world setting and production doesn't suffer. And the script really does take you through a journey with twists and turns. The only real faults, again, are that it gets a slight bit heavy handed when it wants to make a point (though those points need to be made with such a horrible subject that happens way too often) and point the finger at people who participate. AND IGNORE, which it does in a very interesting way to point out in this movie. It is effective, but also comes off a little cheesy. The other fault is that it takes the other lead, Livingston, and tries to get you to identify with him, but then takes him through a journey where they say he just keeps making mistakes. It is trying to point out that these things are mistakes, but it never says that he made the right decision in trying to help. Then, you see how it all goes. In many ways, he is a tragic hero, but also can seem like a fool being played by a system that can't be fixed.

However, I recommend this movie because this is a tragedy that shouldn't be ignored and just the effort to make this a subject brought to light for everybody so awareness can lead to help in any way when possible, is important.