No Right Way

Chelsea Bo. Remember that name. This writer/director/actor has delivered a near-perfect movie experience. For me, the standout element was the amazing performances Chelsea drew out of her young actors. Granted, Ava Acres is an extraordinary actor, but this is a cast with more kids than adults and every performance is spot-on. When asked how, Chelsea said that she worked hard to create a "safe environment" for the young people on set, then "empowered them". She acknowledges that adults often talk down to kids and her aim on set was to give all her actors some freedom (with unscripted dialogue) and to "trust" them. Turns out she was exactly right, because the young people are the story here and they hold it, carry it, and deliver it with deep authenticity. Hopefully, her next project also includes young actors, because she has a Spielberg-thing going with getting the best out of children and youth on screen. The choice of shots, the setting, the soundtrack - everything underlines the strong writing. If you get a chance to see this film - don't miss it.

In a world where most people are only concerned with themselves, it's refreshing to see a movie that recognizes the importance of family, the value of putting someone else first, the patience of love. This movie is for everyone who ever felt they needed to step up and step in. One person can make a difference. This movie is also for teachers. It brings up the idea that life gets in the way of schoolwork. Connecting with students, understanding the challenges they face outside of school is far more important than anything that can be taught in school. This movie tells the story of one girl. One girl who represents so many young people who are safer in school than beyond the classroom doors.

My wife and I had the chance to see this at the Lone Star Film Festival and we were both just floored. The story itself is incredible, but it's in the acting where the film just soars. Director Chelsea Bo set her lightning-in-a-bottle cast free and the result is a realistic, tender, and honest portrayal of the human condition set against a background that is both beautiful and ugly at the same time. This is one of those movies that sticks with you long after the credits have rolled. I remember thinking that I wanted to see more, and could have watched the onscreen chemistry all day.

This was the festival standout to me, and I'm so glad we had the opportunity to see it.

With the simplest of budgets, a complicated journey is told through just a few weeks span of Georgie's life. I was surprised to find out that this wonderful storytelling that made me smile, laugh and cry, was primarily improvised. The women in this film opened my eyes and effectively reminded me that my life's treasure can look very different from somebody else's treasure. The film also reminded me to withhold judgement, keep an open heart and mind, and to operate from a place of love. The characters all had flaws revealed and yet I walked away only remembering and being inspired by their best traits. Thank you for a beautiful film. The message reaches a wide audience, inspiring youth and adults alike, encouraging all sorts of people from all walks of life.

Chelsea Bo takes you on a very real journey through the life of a very real family unit. In today's unique society, raising children is not easy. This movie gives the audience a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs that many people truly are experiencing in today's world. The audience will experience the highs and lows right along with Harper, Georgie and the rest of the cast. No Right Way is heartfelt and inspiring in a way that I have never experienced before. I will recommend this movie to anyone and everyone who enjoys an extremely well written and directed film that is from the heart.