Review of Short Term 12 (2013) by Kenneth B — 03 Nov 2013

I watched this in a cinema screen on my own but unfortunately I hadn't actually rented a showing for myself. Hopefully my experience isn't indicative of the attendance nationwide because this is a thought-provoking and affecting film that in an ideal world should be able to co-exist alongside the Thor's of this world. Variety is what our multiplex cinemas should be all about. Unfortunately if no one shows up to see indie films, they will eventually be pushed out because frankly why would the multiplexes want to lose money on them?

It could be that people simply aren't aware of the existence of Short Term 12. Equally it could be that people want to spend their money on escapism and not the tough world that this film inhabits. Ultimately though there is a lot to take away from Short Term 12. It is a tough film but it is a rewarding one in equal measure. There are nicely placed moments of humour and it has a warm heart at the centre of it which does pay off. There aren't any performers who clock in anything less than an excellent performance but Brie Larson is the centre of the film and her turn as the care worker who has her own demons to deal with is star. In an ideal world she would court an Oscar nomination. We will see on that one.