Watch Poor Boy

Poor Boy is a 2016 drama film directed by Robert Scott Wildes, starring Michael Shannon, Dale Dickey, Amanda Crew, and a talented ensemble of actors. The film tells the story of two brothers, Romeo (Lou Taylor Pucci) and Samson Griggs (Dov Tefler), as they navigate their lives in a small desert town in the Southwest. Romeo is a charismatic young man with a talent for storytelling, while Samson is a more introverted and serious individual, working as a painter to support himself and his brother. The film takes place over the course of a single day, with the brothers facing a series of challenges and encounters that test their relationship and their resolve.

One of the main themes explored in the film is the idea of family and what it means to be a brother. Romeo and Samson are close, but their bond is tested by differing personalities and goals. Romeo has dreams of making it big as a Hollywood screenwriter, while Samson is content with a quiet life of painting and supporting his brother.

The film also explores the role of storytelling and mythology in everyday life. Romeo is a gifted storyteller, and the film often jumps between his tall tales and the real events happening around him. Through Romeo's stories, the film highlights the power of imagination and the way it can help us make sense of the world.

Another theme explored in the film is the idea of the American Dream and the harsh reality that comes with pursuing it. Both Romeo and Samson have dreams of success and wealth, but the reality of their lives in a poor desert town is much different. The film paints a bleak picture of the American Dream, showing how it can often be a trap that leads to disappointment and despair.

The performances in the film are excellent across the board, with Michael Shannon standing out as the brothers' father, a man with a troubled past who returns to town to make amends. Shannon brings an intensity and gravitas to the role that elevates the entire film. Dale Dickey is also impressive as a local tough woman who has a history with the Griggs family.

The film is beautifully shot, with the desert landscapes serving as a stunning backdrop for the story. The use of color and light is particularly impressive, with the film's visual style evoking the harsh, unforgiving nature of life in the desert.

Overall, Poor Boy is a thought-provoking and poignant film that explores complex themes with nuance and subtlety. The performances are excellent, and the direction is skillful, making this a must-see for fans of independent cinema. It's a tale of brotherhood, love, and loss with a cynical, but hopeful perspective.

Poor Boy is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.1.