American Son

Summary: In American Son, the last few days of a young Marines life is chronicled before he has to report to be shipped to Iraq. It follows the life in a small town and how one man struggles with the choices he has made and what it means to be a warrior.

Review: This is my 2nd time rewatching the movie as I had forgotten the plot, but was reminded by my other blog Random Rants of Richard Hay that it was worth watching. The acting by Nick Cannon, is a little weaker, but the supporting cast was strong. Melonie Diaz gives a strong performance It was filmed well as the shots of the landscape of a small town was really brought to life. The plot doesn't touch upon the military as much as it does the decision to join it and that's a change from some other war films.

Further Question/Philosophy/Theme: Behind the statistics and reality of war, lies a human story within each soldier serving in the war that has yet to end. The idea of a home is also brought to light as the marine wanted to leave his small town because of various factors, but he sheds tears of leaving when he realizes what it means and when he falls in love with a girl.

Power Rating (Out of 5) and Comments: 3 This movie is a little slow, but it can be a nice change of pace to reflect. The main character thinks he is all grown up and often reflects on his past, but it should be noted that he is only 19. It makes me wonder if I've become old too having passed through the choices that he was faced with as a youth, or more disheartening, has life come to pass by me.

Favorite Quotes: "Live it up my man, it's all gone so fast."

"Maria likes to have her ass pinched when she's getting it from behind. I give you this information free of charge."