awesome debut

Rating: 9/10 (1 July 2004)

this movies place in the top 250 is justified thoroughly.the directors imagination and craft have pulled out a quality film that appeals to a young audience and also makes you think too which is rare.don't get me wrong I'm young and like the mind-numbing movies aimed at my age group they're enjoyable enough but this film hit me in a different way,it showed all teenage problems whilst linking in a storyline and mystery to rival all others.the cast is simple but effective,Jake Gyllenhall is on top form,hope to see more of him.the 80's references are very well worked (e.g ET).being a youngster but also a film studies student at college this was a top film and is essential viewing,although if u have short patience and small attention span then id leave it because you will hate it and will smudge its reputation.top stuff