Product: Kids (1995)
Rating: 4.0
A Deep, Daring Look At Dangerous Lifestyles
"Kids" is one of the most controversial releases of 1995. Its brilliant and daring plot earns the writers tremendous respect. The inside look of a sexually active teenager, Telly, teaches many lifelong lessons about the dangers and the consequences about such lifestyles. All of his friends influencing him and applauding him for his actions keeps the film interesting as it helps explores other dangerous lifestyles: drug use, violence, etc. In the meantime, they explore another storyline: that of one of Telly's ex-sex partners, Jennie, who discovers she's HIV-positive. Telly is the only sex partner she's had. While she's trying to find Telly to share the news to him, he chases another potential sex partner. Such combination offers a more intense movie experience and adds more twists and turns. Obviously, the writers never held back any graphic details. They share the scenes with the audience like no one is acting. The camera work and the lighting add to the danger effect. The lights shine brighter in most of the afternoon scenes, successfully offering a more graphic view of the characters' environment and a more raw feel. Had they not done that, the danger feel wouldn't have been as heavily present. Leo Fitzpatrick ("Bully")wonderfully portrayed Telly, offering his own bad boy image into the character and to the movie. His research about the expressed issues is obviously present. Oscar nominee Chloe Sevigny ("Boys Don't Cry") proves in her role as Jennie that she is one of the greatest independant movie actresses ever. As with all her projects, her every drop of heart and soul is fully expressed through her character. All other actors also perform their roles wonderfully. "Kids" is a great movie for those looking for something daring. This is highly recommended for parents to show their kids. Few other movies show as much realism as "Kids". Behind that, this is sure to please many audiences.