Review of Towelhead (2008) by Ben J — 06 Jul 2009

Strikingly upfront film from the writer of american beauty, heavily reminiscent of 'happiness' and other works by todd solondz in that you're unsure as to whether you should laugh or be shocked. in part a coming of age story but as with most of alan ball's work thus far, he takes on a multitude of different subjects, never pandering to one side or the other. maybe a difficult watch for some but engaging and thought provoking nonetheless.

Aaron eckhart proves once again that he's an incredibly versatile actor with a magnificently faceted difficult role. I see this as his 'middle ground'. he starts off playing a 'nice guy' effectively in the dark knight and he plays 'asshole' through 'in the company of men'. this role asks eckhart to border between both and he does. in abundance. you can't help but feel slightly sorry for his character (even though I might add, the screenplay doesn't flesh his character out as well as I had hoped) so credit to eckhart for this.

The stand out star in this film is summer bishil. this is such a nuanced performance. subtle, moving, engaging. you're never sure whether 'jasira' is manipulating people, being a normal 13 year old, or trying to impress her elders. thoroughly consistent and bishil is an actress to watch out for forget freido pinto and her one note skills in slumdog.

An absolute travesty that this wasn't nominated for any oscars, particularly acting nods towards eckhart and bishil. summer bishil should have perhaps even won. a daring, satirical, suburban drama focusing on ethnic minorities and their 'affectations', sexual growth and maturity and coming of age in suburban america during the 90's. recommended.