Review of Mean Creek (2004) by Ally C — 05 Sep 2008
When Sam becomes the latest victim of the school bully George, with the guidance of his older brother and their friends, he invents a plan to humiliate him. However, this plan becomes the catalyst for a truly harrowing event that ends up changing their lives forever.
Compared to classics such as 'Stand By Me' and 'Deliverance' 'Mean Creek' is an impressive story of how seemingly simple actions and can have dire consequences. I have only seen 'Stand By Me' but I can see why 'Mean Creek' has been compared to it; both films deal with emotional and unexpected traumas that young kids have to face.
'Mean Creek' however is more heavily tainted with realism than 'Stand By Me'. The director opts for shaky hand-held camera styles, melancholy music and a more complex narrative, which makes for some highly distressing viewing.
The morals and ethics of the film are also portrayed very realistically. This is largely due to the films excellent cast of Rory Culkin, Trevor Morgan, Carly Schroeder, Scott Mechlowicz, Josh Peck and Ryan Kelley who are all superb in their roles, each delivering a different reaction and mood to the events that ensue.
An example of the dangerous nature of revenge, 'Mean Creek' is a film that everyone should see. Superb.
This review of Mean Creek (2004) was written by Ally C on 05 Sep 2008.
Mean Creek has generally received positive reviews.
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