What a surprise!

Rating: 8/10 (1 June 2005)

I went into this movie expecting a complete letdown (mostly because of pretty boy Ledger's presence) but was proved very wrong. The big name actors and actresses in this are mostly unrecognizable, and the focus is kept on the young talent in the film. Emile Hirsch as Jay Adams was enrapturing as he tried to keep up with the others and find his place in life. The competition between Alva and Peralta is for the most part almost subliminal and keeps your attention well.
The best part is the Boogie Nights-esquire rise and fall of the characters as they grow up and change.
This movie was a complete surprise for an unbeliever and and it can sure as hell surprise you too.