Chimera House

Chimera House is a film about a racially diverse kids in a California halfway house. Some of the kids are in for drug use and crimes and others are recovering from mental illness. Generally, the film is well shot and acted. However, the film is occasionally marred by over-enthusiastic editing, leaving out key bits of information, and discontinuous moments. Nevertheless, a film to be proud of by the mostly amateur cast.

The thing about this film is that it is not considered to be a "Hollywood mainstream" film. None of your blow 'em up action, in your face, outrageous budget and egos. This film is based on real life and real situations with it's actors doing an amazing job of portraying these troubled characters.

It's main character, Roy (played by Josh Keaton), is simply trying to adjust to life in a militant group home where other troubled teens are staying. Not the best of places to be but much better than his only other choice which is juvenile hall. During his stay, Roy forced to conform to strict rules and deal with his over the top roommate, Lucky (played by Danny Arroyo).

In the end, the lessons learned are hard ones. Not all are fair or just but as this film tries to show is that life can be what you make of it and sometimes just believing you are more than your surroundings can carry you through the tough times.

"Chimera House" is a good quality film which has been received very well with a number of film festivals. It has won many festival awards to date to include a couple Best Film Awards. A Best Director, Best Music and a Best Actor. It is a film definitely worth seeing and appreciated.