Short Term 12 - B+

Rated R, 96 minutes

Dark yet touching, "Short Term 12" will stay with you

Brie Larson

"Short Term 12" is a compelling, worthwhile new character-driven drama and a great alternative to the summer blockbusters we've had to endure the last few months. Intense, dark, funny and genuinely acted, it takes an unconventional view of how to inspire young people. Grace (Brie Larson) has dedicated her life to helping kids who have slipped through the cracks of the system. Committed to her job and in love with kindhearted co-worker Mason (John Gallagher Jr.), she's still struggling to make sense of her own troubled past when she learns that her life is about to change forever. Directed and written by newcomer Destin Daniel Cretton in his feature film debut and based on a previous short film by Cretton, it's one of the more satisfying and superbly acted independent dramas seen this year. It also features several breakout performances, namely from singer and actress Larson (seen in a small role in another recent dark drama, "The Spectacular Now") as the passionate but tough foster-care worker and Tony-award winning actor Gallagher as her understanding co-worker and boyfriend. Taking place at a foster facility for at-risk teens, 'Short Term 12" could've easily been a maudlin save-the-children TV movie week, but the portrait here, while tender, is largely unsentimental. The no-nonsense, low-key script and direction by Cretton (an auspicious debut) gives a little breathing room for his actors, generating a believable intensity and chemistry, particularly from Larson and Gallagher, who make for a realistic young couple struggling to communicate. The last act falters a bit, though, as it veers off into one of the teens subplots a little too much, making some of Grace's actions less palpable, not to mention some may find its tone depressing (and some of it is), though others may appreciate its dark humor. Winner of the Grand Jury and Audience prizes for Narrative Feature at this year's SXSW (South by Southwest) Film Festival, "Short Term 12" is an enriching and moving film. Put this one on your personal list to see as a start to the fall movie-going season.

Wes's Grade: B+