Review of Towelhead (2008) by Penelope T — 09 Feb 2012

This movie very poignant. But after that it is a coming of age movie. Coming of age to me means that certain events, places, people, or experiences must take place in order for us to make a permanent transition from childhood into adulthood.

This movie highlights that stage in our lives. Be warned this movie is not for everyone. In a nutshell its about a young 13- year old lebonese girl who is experiementing with her body for the first time.

And the good things and bad things that result from this. Mostly bad though. The movie follows her as she explores cultural differences between age, sex, race, and puberty. She also endures racism at school & home.

She endures racial slurs at school such as "wetback", "brownbag", "sandnigger", and yes even "terrorist". Hence the title Towelhead. Through it all she grows and learns things about herself she didnt know.

May also remind you that this movie is not for everyone as it does feature a sex scene between a 13 year old and a fourty something year old man. A teen masturbating in her desk during math class. A dead cat in a freezer.

A young boy really really enjoying his fathers playboy magazines. And among other obscene scenes. Through it all I found myself hitting the pause button and telling myself " no he/she did not just do that" then rewinding and saying oh yes he did.

And thats how you know youve come across a great movie. The same writer who made American Beauty wrote this movie, although I wasnt a fan of that movie, I find myself being a fan of "TowelHead".

Only because I appreciate a good coming of age story with round characters who run into thick and unconventional conflict. I hope if you see this movie you can appreciate the same. Also I appreciate the price I bought it for; $1.

99. But even if you find it for $20 it will be worth every penny.