Review of Nowhere Boy (2009) by Ray P — 17 Oct 2010

As a life-long Beatles and John Lennon fan, I admit to being grossly unprepared for what I learned about the teen life of young John in this outstanding movie (that is mysteriously playing at too few theatres).

Aaron Johnson ("Kick-Ass") is incredible as the complex and torn John Lennon who goes through his teen years being raised by his Aunt Mimi and not really knowing or understanding why his own mother and father abandoned him. Much of what we know and learned about John Lennon can be attributed to this emotional and dramatic period of his life. His mother, suffering from some form of undiagnosed (in this film) bi-polar disorder is discovered by young John and she acts more like a free-wheeling wild friend than a parent (played to a tee by Anne-Marie Duff). This is in stark contrast to the strict upbrining by Aunt Mimi (the incredible, Kristin Scott Thomas). While John's mother may open his eyes to rock n' roll, she also has secrets she needs to keep from him. It is upon the revelation of these secrets that John is finally able to evolve and become the song-writer/poet the world knew.

The scenes where John is introduced to young Paul and later George will provide adequate chills for all Beatles fans. This film is so well acted and directed it is a crime if you claim to be a Lennon or Beatles fan and do not see it. Makes me want to throw on "Backbeat", which basically picks right up where this film leaves off!