Review of Short Term 12 (2013) by Jason S — 27 Jun 2014

Director/screenwriter Daniel Cretton's virtually flawless film is certainly a film that could easily have been more emotionally devastating than it is. That's not to say that there isn't enough of it already here amid the fractured and fragile characters found in Short Term 12. Cretton delicately infuses the unrealised potential for far-reaching hopelessness here with a wholly welcoming delicate air of warmth and sensitivity.

Leading the charge here is the fabulous Larson as Grace. Her stoic presence within such a potentially volatile environment is all the more remarkable when her outwardly simple life beyond the walls of the foster system she works in slowly starts to fracture. It's a subtle splintering that never, ever once lends itself to unnecessary overwrought dramatic irrationality. Through Cretton's screenplay, Larson gives Grace a vulnerable strength that centres the film and provides a stunning balance between her personal demons and the unwavering commitment she has towards her charges.

Credit to Cretton's wonderful direction and screenplay in that as devastating as Short Term 12 could possibly be, the movie all the more stronger for holding back on some aspects of the characters lives. His focus on positive dialogue and creating a safe environment for his audience with a beautifully shot film never makes this anything less compelling than it is.

Short Term 12 is a spectacular achievement in subtle intensity, and an exemplary example of beautifully affecting dramatic filmmaking. Combined with powerful, poignant, even courageous, performances across the board from such a capable young cast, the result is a surprising, significant film experience that's more than worth your time.