Wolves

Shannon is great/ Not quite Rudy but still, great!

Yes, a lot of cliches, Michael Shannon and basketball. And few pathetic scenes. >But a lesson about virtues, maybe too Americans, predictable in its unpredactibility, far to be awful but remembering better films about the same theme and political correct. Not convincing but just nice.

I must admit all the main characters are done very well, especially Michael Shannon as the a-hole of a dad. He drinks too much, gambles unwisely, doesn't respect his college writing students, and treats his teen son badly. All this ultimately comes to a head and there really aren't any winners.

The son is the star of the basketball team, the Wolves. He has hopes of a scholarship to Cornell. But he has yet learned to take control in tough situations. Some street basketball in New York with some rough characters helps him grow.

Carla Gugino, one of my favorites, is effective as the mother.

My wife and I were entertained, but watching the family spiral down was difficult to watch. On DVD from our public library.

Just a good little flick. Feel good moments, characters are believable, morals are questioned. Stumbled upon this film by accident, loved every second. The small town struggle of having a dream and trying to get out is real. Anyone who's ever aspired for something bigger will enjoy this film. Is it Oscar worthy? No, but that doesn't take away from its delivery. Great cast also. Michael Shannon, Carla Gugino, Chris Bauer (? Andy Bellefleur from True Blood). I had no expectations from this film, but walked away pleasantly surprised. Highly reminiscent of those 90's underdog stories with great character drama to boot. Give it a go.

I was not certain as to what I was about to watch, but I am pleased with having done so. Why such a positive rating? I enjoyed not only the script, but the acting.

Taylor John Smith is excellent as a young and budding actor. His facial expressions are extraordinary, projecting extreme joy to extreme hurt and angst. Of course, the end was predictable. I mean, how could it have ended any other way?

The family challenges, obstacles and dynamics are far more common in America today than some might want or hope to believe. In fact, I surmise that similar family "quakes" have occurred in every generation and will continue well into the future.