Acid Test

For a movie about an acid trip, this is a surprisingly kind-hearted, uplifting story about a young woman coming of age in a complicated time. Her relationships with her mother, father, and friends as she struggles to find her place and context in the world are particularly strong. This will resonate with so many people, give it a watch when you're in the mood to meditate on your place in the world, your parents, and feel relieved the challenging and awkward days of high school are over!

Jenny is a senior in high school, not the most popular/not the most nerdy, her love interest is similar, she is gifted, but unsure of her future. And that's where the cliches stop. Her father is harsh and borderline abusive, but his love for his children is evident. Her mother is a Mexican Edith Bunker and definitely needed more screen time.

Acid Test is delightfully set during the backdrop of the 1992 presidential election, which mirrors Jenny's journey: George Bush represents her path to Harvard, which is safe but will most likely lead to a dull life of civil service. Bill Clinton represents her desire to party and drop acid, which incites Jenny to rebel. It's fun, but unsafe and ultimately self destructive. Jenny struggles with these two choices for most of the film, wreaking havoc on the family and friends around her who just want the best for her.

I would have given it 10 stars had they played up the angle I expected at the end: Jenny ultimately chooses to do something entirely different, no one quite understands it, not even herself: aka Ross Perot.

And I can't stress this enough: the music ROCKS.

More than an acid trip. This film takes you on a journey of a young girl's path to understanding her family's dynamics and how love can take many forms and is expressed differently by each family member.

Loved the subtle ways of contrasting differences. For example she does not learn her immigrant mother's language, yet the rich boyfriend speaks fluent Spanish to his maid.

Camera work and the actors subtle (and not so subtle) expressions, the editing and sound all add layers of interest and depth to the total experience

I really like the true facts vs how it's remembered aspect as well. Thoroughly enjoyed and was moved by the entire performance.

Jennie Waldo did an excellent job of producing this film. She worked hard to raise the funding. She hired the best actors and the top cinematographer.

The visuals are stunning. She also chose interesting locations for the film so that you felt it was a true story.

The editing and acting were first rate, they brought together the heart-felt story and you got to the end thinking about yourself and your place in society.

It's a great film to see and appreciate the film making talents of our independent filmmakers. They are our most precious asset. They work outside the studio and truly dedicate themselves to bringing their audience a memorable film.