What counts here is the acute psychological validity with which Gordon evokes a coming of age that's seen with a darkly outrageous sense of humor--and no small amount of compassionate detachment.
75
Christian Science MonitorDavid Sterritt
Christian Science MonitorDavid Sterritt
Fine acting and creative directing lend three-dimensional life to this absorbing story, which blends dreamlike elements with sharply etched drama and touches of pure cinematic ingenuity.
70
Chicago ReaderJonathan Rosenbaum
Chicago ReaderJonathan Rosenbaum
Gordon is so visually and stylistically inventive and the actors are so skillful that you aren't likely to lose interest.
It's a bit like "The Sixth Sense," but without the melodramatic comfort of the supernatural.
58
Portland Oregonian
Portland Oregonian
Although Lloyd's performance (reminiscent in mannerism to Haley Joel Osment), sometimes drags, it's the only real defect in a surprisingly effective film that doesn't stoop to offer easy answers.
50
New York PostLou Lumenick
New York PostLou Lumenick
Has its moments, but overall it's depressing.
50
Entertainment WeeklyOwen Gleiberman
Entertainment WeeklyOwen Gleiberman
Its tone is stilted and mannered -- and most of it seems a bit loony.