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Cast: Timothy Hutton, Alessandro Nivola, Colm Meaney, Donal Gallery
Set in late 1970s Ireland, it tells the story of 16-year-old James Powers, an American who finds himself lost after his mother dies and he is forced to live with his three Irish aunts. Displaced and depressed, he longs for a way to make it back to America. One lucky weekend in London, James discovers pornography and, desperate for cash, he decides to sell them back in Ireland. His success spreads wildly. After finding a possible way home, he must decide where home really is, and finds that one's place in the world is all a state of mind.
"Turning Green" has been out since 2005 and it was released on DVD in the UK in 2007 but now it finally makes it's U.S. debut today from Image Entertainment and after watching it I have to say it is about time. The story is a simple one about James, a 16-year-old and his 11-year-old, Pete who are forced to go live with their Aunt in Ireland after the death of their mother and finding out their no good father wants nothing to do with them. James hates it in Ireland and dreams of going back to American and when he gets the idea to sell porn magazines to the locals he begins to see that dream coming to light as his business really takes off, that is until a local bookie who James ran errands for finds out and plans on not only taking over the business but doing away with James as well. A coming of age story told in a slow yet engaging way, the use of James as the narrative was one thing I really thought that made the film complete. A tragic tale really from the start, you have the boys left without a mother then moved to a place they do not want to be, at least James doesn't as Pete is a bit too young but James will do anything it takes to make it out even with the danger and obstacles in his way. The film is basically a drama but it does have it's more humorous moments as well to lighten things up a bit by the time the film ending gives the audience a bit of hope as well. The film was written and directed by newcomers, Michael Aimette and John G. Hofmann, both did a terrific job telling a story that captivates. As far as the cast goes I don't think they could of found a better group of actors, the wonderful supporting cast includes Timothy Hutton and Colm Meaney but the real star here is another newcomer, Donal Galley who plays James, Donal gives a strong, magnificent performance and I cannot figure out for the life of me figure out why this kid has not been in any other movies since. Shot mostly in several locations in Ireland the film does a great job of showing off it's beautiful countrysides. As far as the music goes it plays softly in the background and it fits every scene perfectly. The ending I thought was a bit tragic but at the same time it gives you the feeling that everything is going to be alright and I really cannot think of a better way to end the film at least without giving it being a complete fairy tale ending. "Turning Green" is a perfect title to a film that had me hooked from it's opening scene and it kept me watching, waiting and hoping for the best for these two brothers.
A wonderful film all around and one that all fan's of drama should check out, the film does have adult themes so it is not one for the kids but I highly recommend it to all adult fans. The DVD only comes with a Trailer but it is worth the price for the movie alone. You can order the DVD HERE.
Released by Image Entertainment
**** Out of *****