Watch Jackie Boy

Jackie Boy is a gritty, indie film released in 2015 that explores the dark realities of addiction and the human condition. Directed by Cody Campanale, the film stars Alino Giraldi as Jack, a young man trying to find his place in the world while battling his substance abuse issues. At the start of the film, Jack is a lost and broken soul. He's struggling to stay sober and make amends with his girlfriend Lisa, who has grown tired of his lying and erratic behavior. With no job and nowhere to go, he turns to drug dealing to make ends meet. It's a dangerous and slippery slope that threatens to swallow him whole.

The film is shot in an intimate and raw style, with a focus on natural lighting and hand-held cameras. This approach gives the film a sense of realism, making it feel like we're watching events unfold in real-time. There are no flashy camera tricks or elaborate set pieces, just a group of talented actors bringing their characters to life.

As the film progresses, we see Jack's world start to crumble around him. His drug deals go south, his relationships become strained, and his addiction starts to take an even stronger hold over him. But even in the face of these challenges, Jack doesn't give up. He clings to the hope that things will get better, that he can find a way out of the darkness.

Along the way, we meet a cast of interesting and complex characters. There's Lisa (Shannon Coulter), Jack's girlfriend who is both supportive and frustrated by his addiction. There's also Manny (Ted Charette), a dealer who takes Jack under his wing, but who may not have his best interests at heart.

The performances in Jackie Boy are one of its strongest assets. Alino Giraldi gives a deeply committed and affecting portrayal of Jack. He brings a vulnerability and honesty to the role that makes us root for him even when he's making bad choices. Shannon Coulter is equally compelling as Lisa, giving a performance that's both nuanced and understated. And Ted Charette is a scene-stealer as Manny, adding a layer of danger and intrigue to the film.

Overall, Jackie Boy is a bleak but ultimately rewarding film. It's a character study that doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of addiction and the toll it takes on those caught in its grip. But it's also a film about hope and resilience, about the indomitable human spirit that can rise above even the darkest of circumstances. If you're a fan of indie cinema or character-driven dramas, this is a film you won't want to miss.

Jackie Boy is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0.