Review of Short Term 12 (2013) by Robert S — 08 Apr 2014

I treated myself to this little indy film tonight and what a treat it was. It's a "small" film populated with real characters involved in real situations like some of us real people have or will be over our lifetimes.

As opposed to the (yawn) usual blockbuster designed for adolescent sensibilities that have filled the mega-screen theaters all summer long, "big" films populated by a stable of superstars in need of a paycheck or one superhero surrounded by supervillians and other "flat" characters, all trapped in a plot-driven storyline featuring non-stop action pumped by stupendous-after-stupendous special effect.

Like most independent films, "Short Term 12" is character-driven. Every member of the well-cast ensemble cast plays its part to perfection. The male and female leads, John Gallagher, Jr. ("The Newsroom") and Brie Larsen ("21 Jump Street") are exceptional as dedicated and gifted counsellors at a home for troubled youth whose private life as a couple has its own big challenges.

I think you should treat yourself to "Short Term 12," too. It's inspiring and uplifting.