the dangerous lives of alter boys [A]

moviemcpeake snippet: So I opted for the independent film this weekend instead of the big blockbuster. Cruise and Spielberg apparently didn't need my ticket purchase to claim number one anyway. Although I still want to see Minority Reports, I am glad about my decision. "The Dangerous Lives of Alter Boys" was a excellent movie. Two warnings before you go and see it: no, it is not about the current Catholic church scandals and two, be prepared for comic book animation mixed into the storyline. That being said, I am not a fan of comic books, nor animation that resembles comic books, but it was done properly and in many ways allowed you to understand the character better, you get the chance to see in his head. It added humor, it added drama, it added intensity to a movie that already had all of the above. Anyone can relate to this movie: the kids, the practical jokes, the secrets, the betrayals, that first kiss, and authority. Jodie Foster produced and portrayed a nun trying to save the souls of the kids in her class. Kieran Culkin, Jena Malone, and Emile Hirsch played the kids needing salvation.

The acting was fresh and honest, the story moving, intense, and real. It all made sense, every frame, every moment, every animation. No Hollywood endings, no Hollywood special effects, just kids being kids and trying to figure out life, where they fit into it, and what really constitutes as a sin. The only thing stopping their "fun" is dealing with real life, a one-legged nun, and consequences. The other great part is the previews were all up and coming indie films so I have more great films to check out and report back on.

recommendation: go back in time and re-live your stupid antics as a kid and add a nun.