Powder

The movie 'Powder' is a return to innocence. It possesses a spiritual quality that opens the eyes to life. And it lends a soothing note to those questions for which their seems to be more questions and few answers. Sean Patrick Flannery's performance was so powerful that one could actually feel the unconditional love within the heart and soul of the character that he played. The concepts that were brought forward, the passion that came with every dramatic scene, and the sense of realism and truth made it one of the most thought provoking movies of all time. Powder was not based on a true story, but it is, I feel, everybody's true story in some way, and it is as powerful, passionate, and inspirational as any true story I have ever seen. Some viewers may wish to begrudge the apparent perfection portrayed by the lead character. However, his only perfection was the way he searched so deep, often at great personal expense, for the suppressed perfection in everyone, and the hidden perfection in everything. I was somewhat disappointed by how the family quality of the movie was spoiled by the use of language by the school bully. Still, a must see for anybody who enjoys a thought provoking film once in a while. Even if you're a person who would prefer to sit down with a good book, as am I, the movie 'Powder' is definitely worth your time. In conclusion: 'Powder' is one of my favourite movies of all time. Seconded, in my opinion, only to 'The Boondock Saints'; also starring Sean Patrick Flannery.

Much was written at the time of it's release, mostly concerning the conviction of it's writer/director Victor Salva on a sexual molestation charge. All that aside "Powder" remains a extraodinary film worth a look. A young man is dicovered living in the basement of his recently deceased Grandmother. Obviously an albino he soons reveals a intellect and abilities unlike any human before him. Sean Patrick Flannery gives a great performance as the youth.Salva does a fine job of coveying his difficult entry into surroundings he's never expereinced. Others in the cast are very good as well including Mary Steenburgen as the head of the school he is sent to, Lance Henrickson as the local sherrif in a more sensitive role for him, And finally Jeff Goldblum as the science teacher who realizes what the young man is and the potential of mankind to evolve into a more humane species. I don't think many people gave this film a chance based on the bad press Salva received. It's certainly one of the best films i've seen in recent years.

This is a pretty touching film about a young, bald albino boy named Jeremy 'Powder' Reed (Sean Patrick Flannery) who has special powers that bewilders his community.

Flannery plays Reed pretty brilliantly, generating the audience's sympathy as he deals with his special condition and deal with adversities coming from members of his community, who ridicule him for his looks and unusual abilities.

The plot may not be fast-paced but it's a film that doesn't rely on the cliché Hollywood formula, instead, provides a unique story-line with a does of reality, despite its sci-fi elements. The acting was quite good, with a supporting role by Jeff Goldblum. Not a bad film overall.

Grade B

Many positive superlatives could not express the brilliance of this film. It astounds me that given the rather un-original state Hollywood has been in since 1980 (and continues to be in with the blatant and dull John Travolta rip-off of Phenomenon in 1996) that such a wonderful film was given the green light. It is always a rarity to see this type of masterpiece hit the screen... and a pleasure too. There was much controversy surrounding this film upon its initial release... mostly of the kind that had nothing to do with the actual movie. To that I can only say one thing... it takes more then one person to make a movie! Get over it. Besides the clever, thought provoking, tender, respectful and intelligent script penned by Victor Salva, he also does a top-notch job in the direction. I loved this movie, I own this movie and I whole-heartedly recommend it to everyone.

If someone explained the plot of Powder to me, I would assume it was some sappy, simple, over emotional clap trap, from someone like Spielberg. Yet when I actually saw the film, I found it to be deep, intelligent and very moving.

There are some things wrong with the film, a number of the characters are stereotypes and some parts of the plot are a little unexpected. If you ignore these simple problems, the quality of the direction and acting shine through, to provide an excellent film.

I very rarely say this, but I think, Sean Patrick Flanery's performance is one the most remarkable I have ever seen. Tender and awkward, without looking false.

Overall an excellent film, but maybe for the more mature viewer.