KIN (2018)

Directed By: Josh Baker & Jonathan Baker 
Written By: Daniel Casey, Jonathan Baker & Josh Baker 
Based on The Short Film “BAG MAN” By: Josh Baker & Jonathan Baker 
Cinematography By: Larkin Seiple 
Editor: Mark Day 
Music By: Mogwai 

Cast: Myles Truitt, Jack Raynor, Dennis Quaid, Zoe Kravitz, James Franco, Carrie Coon 


A young boy finds a powerful otherworldly weapon, which he uses to save his older adoptive brother from a crew of thugs. Before long, the two of them are also pursued by federal agents and mysterious mercenaries aiming to reclaim their asset.

This film unfortunately bombed at the box office. As on a budget of $30 million dollars it only made $9 million. Which is a shame as honestly I never heard of the film. Not saw any advertisements for it and probably would have passed it by, if not for the recommendation of fellow film fan Vashawn Quiones. Who described the film as a crime thriller with sci-fi elements.

The film has a recognizable cast. Who one wouldn’t expect to even in this Type of film.

The film is surprising as other than a kind of downtrodden tone and some harsh material this film is the type to me that has been missing. A kind of Amblin wish fulfillment film. Where a kid who has had it hard in life get something magical/mystical alien ray gun. That ends up throwing his life into shambles as well as his family. As soon as things start changing usually into shape for the better bit after having a kind of tragedy happen. Here the bad comes but he object saves or rectifies it.

So again while hard bitten this film seems appropriate more for a teen or even preteen audience. Which even provides a lead character of color. So that the film has crossover appeal but also. Opens the film and the audience up so minorities can see someone more like themselves in a sci-fi story.

James Franco continues to try to be a chameleon type of character actor with leading man looks and opportunities. Here he is the villain and seems to let his lol and clothing do most of the work for his character. As he is ruthless in behavior fueled by revenge that are more his fault in the first place.

Jack Raynor who was so winning as the older brother in the movie SING STREET does the same here only in an American accent and more troubled filled with fully and trying to do the right thing. Even as he sometimes comes off as his doppledanger Chris Pratt. As here he is just as charming and free spirited only less comedic.

The film is continuously inventive and fun as this cross country adventure pulls you in. It tries to present a reality but can’t help feel more and more like a fantasy. Including a pit stop here they pick up a stripper played by Zoe Kravitz. Whose character is looking to escape with and of course has a heart of gold. Yet nothing sexual happens nor is there any nudity. Not to mention when it comes to violence there is barely any bloodshed and for most violent acts. We see either the aftermath or hear the shot or see right up to when the shot is fired we never see the impact. We know they are dead or see part of the body still. It seems only a little graphic as they are meant to be felt and help move the story and it’s machinations forward.

Zoe kravitz adds a female touch and eye candy to the film. As both main characters become close and seem to be attracted to her. So far out of most of her acting roles. This has been one of my favorites as it seems the most warm with a signature look as she remains memorable with little it seems offered on the page.

Offers up a story of brothers and alienation in the present. How they fight for one another and how strong that bond can be even if not brothers by blood.

The film References to other sci-fi films like THE TERMINATOR and even THE BROTHER FROM ANOTHER PLANET.

Even as the story feels a bit typical. It plays itself like an underdog story. Most of the budget had to be spent on the special effects and action sequences it seems.

The bigger name actors seen here more as a favor and believe in the Project. As their roles are essential but more smaller supporting roles.

It seems only the violence is a little graphic as they are meant to be felt and help move the story and it’s Message


GRADE: C+