'Twelve and Holding' was an amazingly refreshing, surprise and gem of an independent film. I had very little to go on prior to viewing, only knowing that one of my favorite up-coming actors, Renner, starred in it. And being ignorant prior completely paid in dividends with the delight on how well made this adolescent coming-of-dark-ages movie was made. Though not a horror movie (despite one character donning a "Jason Voorhees"-like hockey mask,) I could certainly see Stephen King's vision of best buddies growing up too fast with adult tragedies, such as in his novels 'IT' and 'The Body' (or the movie 'Stand By Me.') How well they captured King's take on young kids dealing with very bad things was like watching a brand new King novel on screen. In this small town, each of three kids has their own demons thrust upon them. One's heavy and criticized to the point he embarks on bettering his and his mother's life. One's in love with someone 2 (or 3) times older. And the final has probably the most to worry about: dealing with large birthmark on his face, a brother who died "by accident" as well as a replacement brother. I really don't want to give away too much – believe me when I tell you, I barely scratched the surface. Sufficient to say, you need to see this movie. Excellent performances all around – I can't believe no one was nominated for Oscars, let alone the screenplay, director, etc. I haven't seen such a movie since the string of adolescent-drama films produced in the 70s/80s, such as, again, 'Stand By Me.' 'Holding' is completely original, had great music, appropriately comedic moments, excellently cast, suspenseful, emotional, and extremely thought provoking. Best recommendation is to recommend this gem to everyone after watching it.
Review of 12 and Holding
