gumplord

I happened to come across this short film on AtomFilms by chance, and I must say that I'm not sorry I did. This movie is so revolting in concept that it in no way can be taken seriously-- a true dark comedy. However, it is most certainly not for the faint of heart or those easily offended. I found myself wondering what this little boy's real-life parents had to say about his participation in this project. I found myself wondering what this little boy had to say about his own participation in this project. Indeed, those might be intriguing discussions to have. I found myself shocked and outraged, yet applauding. I really don't know what else to say about the film, as I've never seen anything like it. In me, it achieved cognitive dissonance at its best, which is a good thing. To anyone anywhere who might have the capacity to put this out on DVD in some fashion: Please do!! 9/10.

I'll have to be honest... I elected not to see this movie in the theatre because of my historical dislike of Ashton Kutcher, based on his previous work. Upon reading through several reviews of the film, my initial concerns appeared to have been validated. However, I came across The Butterfly Effect at the video store recently and decided to give it a shot. Needless to say, I am quite glad I did. Some of the major criticisms relate to the perceived plot holes surrounding the issue of theoretical time travel. I agree that there are imperfections here; however, I also recognize that sacrifices must at times be made in order to tell a story that the viewer will find appealing and interesting. Call it poetic license...after all, it is intended to be a piece of art, NOT a research paper on temporal theory. One of the characteristics I look for in a good film is the extent to which it elicits intellectual debate (brain candy), because I believe good intellectual debate is a positive contribution to society. This one, for better or worse, certainly has done that. There has been ample critique of the acting in this film as well. I won't go as far as to say there are any Oscar-worthy performances here, but the performances were more than adequate. Mr. Kutcher delved very well into uncharted territory in this movie, which was refreshing. I actually found myself liking him, which I never thought would happen. I was also very impressed with the performances of the kids in this movie -- particularly Logan Lerman (Evan at age 7) and Jesse James (Tommy at age 13). All in all, 8 out of 10--

I decided to take in this film primarily because it showcases the premier event of my hometown, by virtue of which has allowed me its access. I went in with few expectations, and left feeling quite satisfied. This film certainly ventures from the typical Hollywood fluff one might expect from a movie featuring Little League Baseball, casting a dark aura about an event cherished for its purity. Some off-beat humor slips in from time to time, as well as some stunning contrast of emotion rarely seen in mainstream films. I also paid attention to many of the details, given that I spent my childhood late Augusts watching the games at Lamade Stadium. I will say I would have loved to see in some of the shots children sliding down the upper hill behind Lamade on pieces of cardboard boxes, which has become a trademark of Little League Baseball ambiance, but I understand the absence. All in all, good viewing, and a shame that this film will likely pass into relative obscurity.