Kelly & Cal

KELLY & CAL is the kind of movie that stays with you long after you've seen it. Perfect casting of Juliette Lewis who's real-life rock 'n roll youth only strengthens the very raw, honest, and real identity crisis that comes with first-time motherhood. Unfortunately, I have lived this moment in life myself and Juliette plays it with the same "what-the-hell-just-happened" look on her face that I must have had. But Jonny Weston's performance of Cal stole the movie for me. I felt as shocked and moved by his character as Juliette Lewis's Kelly. He was charismatic and heartbreaking. This movie is so smartly written by Amy Lowe Starbin. The characters so true to their place in life. For example, Cal's cynicism might seem older than his years at times, but his youthful judgment and actions remind us he is still a teenager. The movie as a whole is a near perfect synergy of writing, directing, acting, cinematography, editing, and sound design. The side characters have depth and range that defies their limited time on screen. And while it's been a festival favorite, it is not the type of indie movie that leaves you feeling uncomfortable or weirded out, or mentally exhausted. It's the type of movie I dream of, one that reflects real life and leaves me with a bit of hope.

Ugh.... so tired from this "SOHO STYLE DRAMA", where all conception, ideas and actions around music (which is mostly rock, punk rock,etc.), somebody who is different from whole of the world (loser, disabled person, unlucky or simpler lost person) and for sure with deep thoughts, and meaning.

In my opinion, since we (as a human being) have movie "Once" (2006) which is sort of origin of this kind of movies and "Begin Again" (2013) which is good movie that kind of intervene a new style of music, clothing and way of living is enough. I understand that people who like "Song One" (2014), "Lords of Dogtown" (2005), "School of Rock" (2003) and "Trainspotting" (1996) will or would consider me as snobbish movie buff, but honestly, don't you think that it's time to create a good movie. That based on something, has some meaning and will be useful for our future generation and can be a heritage for them!?!

Kelly (Juliette Lewis) is a former musician turned suburban mom. She hasn't had sex with husband Josh (Josh Hopkins) for 6 months since the birth of their baby. She is uncertain about her new life and struggling as a new mom. She befriends wheelchair-bound flirtatious neighborhood teen Cal McCullen (Jonny Weston). She's hounded by her in-laws Bev (Cybill Shepherd) and Julie (Lucy Owen).

There are some funny moments like her friends with pictures of a dog. There are poignant moments. There are tough moments. There are awkward moments. It all adds up to an uneven movie. Juliette Lewis is terrific transitioning between the emotional turmoils. I wish this was something simply with Kelly & Cal starting a band. The filmmaker seems intent on going for a higher degree of difficulty and don't quite make it.

An excellent "little" movie. The story of a friendship between a new mother and a young neighbor in a wheelchair. The trailer gives a much brighter image than it actually is. And it's better than the trailer. It gives a bittersweet atmosphere all along that takes guts. A film that speaks to young parents, first love, the passing of time, the mourning to do. Simple and touching.

I loved this film!! It's poignant, raw, and so engaging. Performances across the board completely believable, truthful & deep. I didn't want it to end. Juliette Lewis is always interesting and here she is phenomenal, with every moment full and electric. The rest of the cast is also great. Jonny Weston, Josh Hopkins and Cybill Shepherd. So much fun to watch their shades of gray. And beautifully shot to make us feel like we're inhabiting this world. Masterfully directed by Jen McGowan. A must see!