I watched Jolene because I am a huge fan of Jessica Chastain. I truly think she has the acting chops to live out a long and successful acting career. I am not familiar with the book this film is based on, so I can only rate this film based on what was presented.
This movie is a coming-of-age story. Jessica is not 15, however, at the beginning of the film she acted the emotional age of 15. She was so convincing of that, that appearance-wise it didn't matter as much to me. As for plot, many before said there was no plot. I disagree on this point. Following Jolene on her physical, mental and emotional journey was indeed the plot! This was not a lazy man's film; you had to pay attention. Jolene was learning and her character was developing along the way. Jessica's acting was perfect, even if the story felt a little drawn out or campy at times.
The only things I feel that would have improved the movie were a more resolute ending (does she fight for her child?), and a slightly different cast. I could not take Rupert Friend, Michael Vartan, and Denise Richards seriously.
This movie is a coming-of-age story. Jessica is not 15, however, at the beginning of the film she acted the emotional age of 15. She was so convincing of that, that appearance-wise it didn't matter as much to me. As for plot, many before said there was no plot. I disagree on this point. Following Jolene on her physical, mental and emotional journey was indeed the plot! This was not a lazy man's film; you had to pay attention. Jolene was learning and her character was developing along the way. Jessica's acting was perfect, even if the story felt a little drawn out or campy at times.
The only things I feel that would have improved the movie were a more resolute ending (does she fight for her child?), and a slightly different cast. I could not take Rupert Friend, Michael Vartan, and Denise Richards seriously.