AMERICAN SON (2008)

Directed By: Neil Abramson 
Written By: Eric Schmid 
Story By: Neil Abramson & Eric Schmid 
Cinematography By: Kristian Kachikis 
Editor: Karen Schmeer 

Cast: Nick Cannon, Melonie Diaz, Tom Sizemore, April Grace, Matt O’Leary, Sean Marquette, Jay Hernandez, Chi McBride, Percy Daggs III


The story of a young Marine, fresh from Camp Pendleton, who is forced to confront the complexities of adulthood and a volatile home life during a four-day Thanksgiving leave.

This is a good film. That is a simply told story.

The film doesn't take a political stance. Instead it just focuses on characters. Most are good despite their actions. They were usually coming from the right place to them.

A love story looms and begins to drive the film at a certain point. While never forgetting any of the issues and dilemmas that were touched upon.

We get glimpses into why the lead may have chosen to join the armed forces as well as hints Into what his domestic life was. His family isn't picture perfect. They have and had Problems that they are trying to still conquer. So the armed forces seems to promise stability and a future. Unlike he one he could forsee if he stayed at home. Where not much seems to happen.

It still leaves a little to be desired as it is matter of fact, though you may sit there wanting more as it feels slight. Though that is what makes it feel natural. That there isn't all these problems on top of problems. It's just rather simple and ideal with situations as they are no big decisions or self serving acts or characters

No one group comes together to see him off or stop him from going back. The movie just seems to stop. Sort of symbolizing how life will go on no matter what as the camera just seems to stop following anyone. Where as before it was anxious and in your face.

It is simple no glad standing. No information about him after he goes off back to base.

Nick cannon is shockingly good in the lead role. He doesn't have the cockiness he can sometimes display to ill effect. His character though we never see him before, from the description pretty much sounds like he is the same person as when he left. It doesn't seem like the military changed him all that much.

We sit there during the credits hoping he comes back safe and sound after his your of duty is over. You can look at the ending and his future depending on the type of person you are. Come up with your own. Depressing or hopeful.

Grade: B