In this delightful, modern film noir caper set in a southern California middle school, Brazilian born director
Cristina Nava, (who is also a teacher), has a deft hand working with her talented youth cast-plus various memorable adults like
Mina Olivera, who delivers a personable and perplexed performance as Mrs. Stackhouse.
Forrest Hartl's script shows a sensitivity to middle school dialogue, life, and social dynamics. He also plays "Dad," and delivers a compelling performance navigating the challenges of being a (mostly) single parent trying to raise two sons.
The expansive drone shots have special impact-and are themselves nostalgic-as they show the fire-free, idyllic Los Angeles area of the very recent past. The Southern California that will return.
Some of the dialogue from the young actors is delivered so quickly that at points its difficult to understand. However, the film gets stronger and more cohesive as it progresses. DP
Scott Takai creates a range of engaging, atmospheric shots in the film noir genre for the dream sequences-e.g. Wide lens, one character very close to the camera, lots of depth of field, etc.
Gianna Fusco-Foster and
Sammi Corona-Lampa deliver scene-stealing performances as Ana and Elena-two attitude-charged LA girls with bandannas and ribbons in their hair.
Connor William Barrett's solid performance as Sam the school sleuth makes the audience empathize with his character's reliable nature-turned astray by the allure and machinations of Sadie, the new student. You feel Sam's fall from grace.
But perhaps the revelation of the film is
Jovie Leigh as Sadie-at once charismatic, manipulative, and demanding. A sixth grade Lady Macbeth.
The diverse soundtrack contains many styles, including lots of excellent smoky, slinky 40s jazz cues. Close your eyes and you can see
Lauren Bacall. Italian-based composers
Susan DiBona and
Salvatore Sangiovanni's expressive orchestral score was performed by the Rome Film Orchestra. Forza Azzurri!
A warm family film with a positive spirit.
