The Public

This amazing movie shows you the tip of the iceberg of the heart of libraries and why they are the most important organizations in our communities. After laughing, crying, and cheering, i jumped up for a standing ovation on this portrayal of the profession I've dedicated my life to for over thirty years. Thank you Emilio Estevez, the cast, and crew for this film.

... when the night temperature plummets and they take shelter in the public library supported by some of the staff, much to the annoyance of a local politician - outstanding performances all round in a film you'll want to revisit again and again.

I really liked this film. The reviews I saw mentioned that it had no ending, no resolution, which is true, but neither does the problem with homelessness in our society. I think it accurately reflects an urban library setting. I'd pay to see it again.

This is a surprisingly delightful film. Surprised by the marks it's received on this site, as seems a generally negative opinion from the mainstream critics and lukewarm from the rest. Fair enough, but really it's a basic humbling tale.

Old star favourite Emilio Estevez is still looking great, and is incredibly the director, writer & main star of this movie. He is a librarian who finds himself helping a standoff in a library for the homeless against the establishment. There is a fine stellar cast to support Estevez including Alec Baldwin, Jeffrey Wright, Christian Slater and MK Williams, and they all play their roles well.

This is a tale that thankfully avoids the worst possible cliches & schmaltz that could have occurred in the writing. It walks a fine line. The good side is the humanity it shows across the character. Excluding Christian Slater's desperate politico, all the other characters are written with some empathy. MK Williams stars as like a man whom his former foes in The Wire would have been targeting. 'Rhymefest' steals the show as one of the homeless in a wonderful portrayal which is touching.

In truth there is nothing taxing here for any of the actors, but it's wonderful for all the actors, and the on-screen camaraderie makes it a joy to watch.

It's a well made movie which I'm certain all will enjoy. Fine humour and direction, and deserves more credit than it's got so far from what I can see. It's no big budget movie, but does what it wants to say & do perfectly.

If you want a pick me up, then grab a coffee and please give this one a viewing. A very pleasant watch.

When I saw this, there were only 2 of us in the theater and that's a shame since this is a good movie that should be seen by everyone. Good acting, direction and writing. It needs more publicity!