"Spin" tells the story of a boy who loses his parents in a plane crash, is taken in by his uncle (Tucci), who then leaves him for ten years in the care of his Hispanic ranch hand (Blades) and his wife (Delany). Once in high school, Eddie (Merriman) reconnects with a girl from his past (Garces), and their growing interracial relationship teaches the sometimes-sullen Eddie to think of others before himself.
Acting
Rubén Blades carries the soul of this entire film.
Writing
Dad-joke dialogue that somehow lands with genuine warmth.
Direction
James Redford's debut — nepotism done right.
Director
James Redford
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
James Redford was Robert Redford's son; this was his only feature before pivoting to documentaries and environmental advocacy.
The film's interracial romance was quietly radical for 2003 family dramas, which usually centered white women's journeys.
US
