No Turning Back

So many independent films these days seem to be an opportunity to show off the filmmakers ambitions, rather than what they can contibute to the world with their insights and perspectives. This charming and compassionate film is more of what is needed in this world, and particularly in this country (the U.S.) today. With the monumental self -imposed task of producing, directing and starring in his own first film, Jesus Nebot actually comes through with flying colors. His performance is flawless, and carries with it the sensibilities attributed to another talented actor/director, Roberto Benigni, in his charm, passion and good will (plus, he's way more handsome than Benigni -- sorry Roberto!). And while there are some minor flaws in the dialogue and a couple of unrestrained performances, they do not take away from the other excellent performances (in particular Susan Haskell as the devastated Mother) and the fact that this is not only an important film in its own right (due to the timeliness of its subject matter) but also a representation of this filmmakers strong talents. I hope he gets many more opportunities to make films, as it seems they would only make the world a slightly better place, rather than taking us further down the path of desensitization and despair.