Reach

Teens and parents should watch this. Teenagers have so many problems that they have to face each day so seeing some of them portrayed on screen can make them feel like they aren't alone. Especially with the rise of social media culture, and getting anything for views and status, it can easily send anyone into a tailspin. The acting is wonderful, you can really feel how everyone takes every subject matter very seriously, and interact with each other accordingly. It shows both perspectives of the victim and victimizer when it comes to bullying, which is really important since other films can only show one perspective. A must watch.

This film has an identity crisis with its convoluted writing and screenplay that took away from the films message. The pace was too slow and that awful unbearable score made it more evident. Considering there were 3 novice writers, you'd think at least one of them would have fine-tuned the screenplay. The acting was mainly sub-par/amateurish with the exception of Johnny James Fiore, who was adequate. Others were stale or ridiculously overboard. Leif Rokesh directed this film fairly decent considering it's his first notch in film making, but he would have shined if the editing was better. Granted, this was a low budget indie film, but I feel it could have been much better with a little fine tuning and getting rid of that awful score and soundtrack to elevate it from being bland, into having some or little life. Nevertheless, still a noble attempt for a C-grade indie film. 6/10 from me

Wow. This film left me incredibly emotional. I have probably just experienced dozens of emotions while watching these characters endure immensely traumatic events, broken up by tender moments of humor, hope, friendship, and familial reconnections.

Surrounding themes of bullying, loneliness, suicide, alcohol/drug abuse, infidelity, and homicide, this story inspires and empowers a stance against these very real phenomena. There is also an encouragement to understand that as the characters each come from their own flawed backgrounds, their struggles may explain their behaviors and outbursts, but does not justify them, nonetheless.

Overall, this film serves as a great reminder to empathize more, making this a must-watch. The very talented cast, containing some familiar faces, provide some amazing performances with great depth to a well-written story.

Reach is an emotional rollercoaster, from the opening line I was instantly hooked. This film set out to show us the value in life, and to never take it for granted. It takes us on a journey, dissecting our protagonist's imperfections and why they are the way they are. By far Johnny James Fiore steals the show as Clarence West. In most films this character would be relegated to the comedic sidekick but, I am so glad it's not the case here. Additionally Jordan Doww gives greater depth to Nick Perkins who you'd think would be the one note bully character. It was such a delightful surprise to experience his side of the story, to the point where I was almost wanting more. Of course there's also Garrett Clayton as Steven Turano whose slow progression from suicidal loner to confident musician was portrayed with great reverence. I would highly recommend this film not just for the experience but for its real life values. Suicide is no laughing matter, and many young adults fall victim to it too often. I feel Reach proudly stands in opposition!

This is about two high school seniors, both of whom have issues, that needed a true friend and found one in one another. The point here was how far out on a limb one was willing to go to protect the other. The flaws can be overlooked if the message is received!