In this drama thriller set in the South, a young boy named Green (Bret Harrison) longs to escape his unhappy life but feels trapped in his hometown. A gifted special-effects makeup artist, Green has big dreams of working in Hollywood. But the boy's personal demons -- a drunken, abusive stepfather, a group of religious zealots out to destroy his work and the love of a girl who prefers small-town life -- may stand in the way of his dreams.
Practical Effects
Green's creature creations are genuinely impressive for the budget.
Acting
Bret Harrison carries the whole film on his slumped shoulders.
Direction
Hall's debut understands small-town claustrophobia intimately.
Director
Robert Hall
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Director Robert Hall was a professional special effects artist before filmmaking; Green's workshop is basically autobiographical.
This is Laura Prepon between That '70s Show and Orange Is the New Black, playing against type as small-town romantic anchor.
US
