Watch The Lesser Blessed

The Lesser Blessed is a 2012 Canadian drama film directed by Anita Doron and based on the novel of the same name by Richard Van Camp. The film stars Joel Evans as Larry Sole, a troubled Native American teenager living in a small northern town in Canada. Kiowa Gordon plays Johnny Beck, a charismatic and dangerous new student who quickly befriends Larry and draws him into a world of drugs, violence, and sexual exploration. Chloe Rose plays Juliet Hope, a white girl from the city who catches Larry's eye and helps him deal with his troubled past.

The film begins with Larry's voiceover, describing the harsh beauty of his hometown, and his own sense of isolation and despair. He lives alone with his mother, who is emotionally distant and works long hours at a local diner. His father is absent and his brother has run away to the city. Larry spends his days at school, where he is bullied by his classmates and is often the target of racist comments. He copes with his loneliness by drawing cartoons and dreaming of a better life.

When Johnny Beck arrives at the school, Larry is immediately drawn to him. Johnny is a talented athlete and a natural leader, and he quickly forms a bond with Larry over their shared Native American heritage. Johnny introduces Larry to drugs and alcohol, and encourages him to explore his sexuality. Larry is hesitant at first, but he is also desperate for a sense of belonging, and he soon becomes Johnny's loyal follower.

As Larry becomes more deeply involved with Johnny and his friends, his relationships with other people begin to suffer. He begins to distance himself from his mother and Juliet, and he starts to act out in dangerous and reckless ways. Johnny becomes increasingly violent and erratic, and Larry struggles to keep up with his demands. Eventually, Larry must decide whether to continue down the path that Johnny has laid out for him, or to find a way to break free and forge his own path.

The Lesser Blessed is a powerful and haunting film that explores the complex issues of identity, race, and youth in a raw and unflinching way. The performances by the three young actors are striking, particularly Joel Evans as Larry, who conveys a powerful sense of vulnerability and strength. Kiowa Gordon is equally impressive as the charismatic and deeply troubled Johnny, and Chloe Rose brings a welcome sense of empathy and warmth to her role as Juliet.

The film is visually stunning, with breathtaking shots of the northern landscape, and a vivid sense of place and atmosphere. The soundtrack is also impressive, featuring a mix of contemporary and traditional music that adds to the film's sense of urgency and emotion. Director Anita Doron brings a clear and confident vision to the film, creating a vivid and unforgettable world that lingers in the mind long after the credits have rolled.

Overall, The Lesser Blessed is a deeply affecting and memorable film that deserves to be seen by a wide audience. It is a moving and honest portrayal of the challenges faced by young people living on the margins of society, and a testament to the power of friendship, love, and hope to overcome even the greatest obstacles.

The Lesser Blessed is a 2012 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.