Watch The Wise Kids

The Wise Kids is a coming-of-age drama film that was released in 2011. The movie follows the lives of three best friends, who are all high school seniors in their small Southern Baptist community. Brea (Molly Kunz), the daughter of a Baptist pastor, is struggling with her faith and questioning what she wants out of life. Laura (Allison Torem), a devoted Christian, is preparing to leave for college, where she hopes to find new experiences and perspectives. Tim (Tyler Ross), Brea's stepbrother, is a talented musician who is secretly dealing with the fact that he is gay.

The plot is set around the end of the summer, which marks a turning point in the lives of the three teenagers, as they must confront their beliefs, relationships, and future. As they go through their daily lives, they face various challenges and choices that require them to evaluate who they are, who they want to be, and what they want to stand for.

Brea is at the center of the story, and her perspective serves as the main point of view. She is struggling with the idea that gay people are not accepted in her conservative community, which makes her question her beliefs on sexuality and morality. She is also dealing with her own romantic and sexual desires, as she falls in love with a rebellious boy from her school. Brea's journey is emotional and thought-provoking, as she tries to reconcile her faith with her own desires and doubts.

Laura, on the other hand, has a more straightforward and optimistic outlook on life. She is excited to leave her small town and explore the wider world, but she also fears leaving behind her family, friends, and faith. She is also unsure about whether she should pursue a long-distance relationship with her boyfriend or start anew at college. Despite her uncertainties, Laura remains a supportive friend to Brea and Tim, and she tries to stay true to herself while opening herself up to new experiences.

Tim's storyline is more subtle and subdued, but it is no less impactful. He is dealing with the burden of keeping his sexual identity a secret from his family and friends, for fear of being rejected or hurt. He finds solace in playing music and spending time with his dad, who accepts him for who he is. However, he is also aware of the expectations and prejudices of his community, which makes him feel isolated and alone. Tim's journey is sensitive and genuine, and it portrays the struggle of young LGBTQ+ people in a conservative and religious environment.

The movie's style is minimalist and naturalistic, with a focus on the characters' internal struggles and interactions. The dialogues are authentic and nuanced, with a mix of humor and deep emotions. The cinematography captures the beauty and simplicity of the town and its surroundings, as well as the intimacy and vulnerability of the characters' relationships. The soundtrack features indie and folk music that complements the mood and themes of the movie.

Overall, The Wise Kids is a heartfelt and honest portrayal of teenagers navigating their way through faith, friendship, and identity. It is a movie that resonates with anyone who has ever questioned their beliefs or struggled to fit in. It is not a preachy or judgmental movie, but rather a compassionate and respectful one that celebrates diversity and acceptance. The acting, writing, and directing are all top-notch, and they create a poignant and unforgettable story that stays with you long after the credits roll.

The Wise Kids is a 2011 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4 and a MetaScore of 74.