Watched some good “little movies” in the last week or two and wanted to write a little something about them because they were such good examples of the kind of quality independent films that never seem to get much publicity. They’ve sort of “fallen through the cracks” in terms of attracting the audience they deserve. Little movies usually have characters that are quite ordinary and the action’s typically low-key. They don’t offer up the frequently-used elements you find in blockbusters, e.g., car chases, gun battles, epic drama, historical events, etc., etc., etc. There’s not a lot of hoopla when these films are released. No giveaways at the theaters for kids. No special meal boxes at McDonalds. None of that stuff. Try ’em anyway; I think you’ll agree they’re still movies well worth a watch.

Out of the Black

Ray Cook, an aging alcoholic (played by the ever versatile Nick Nolte) befriends Dave, a vandal (Trevor Morgan) and ends up asking him to pose as his son at high school reunion, ostensibly as payback for the damage he’d done. The film explores the lives of these two men with real sensitivity and humor. There’s a poignant subplot involving Dave’s father and sister that reveals important things about the young man. Ray’s character is just as skillfully developed as we watch his dealings with Dave and learn what others have to say about him during the film’s climax-the reunion. Made by first time director, James Ponsoldt, this independent film has some impressive talent. In addition to Nolte, Out of the Black features such seasoned vets as Timothy Hutton and Sally Kirkland. Fortunately, young actor, Morgan, more than holds his own with this group. All in all, this is a fine movie-not to be missed.

The Secret Life of Words.

Directed by Isabel Coixet, this quiet, intelligent film deals with two persons coping with their pasts. Starring the splendid Sarah Polley and Tim Robbins, the movie explores how we try to escape from awful things that have happened and how love and language (and silences too) help heal us. The plot involves a skeleton crew manning an oil rig off the coast of Scotland. There’s been an accident, and the rig’s out of operation, maybe permanently. Given just small details here and there, we end up fascinated–wanting to know more about these folks who’re willing (even wanting) to live such an isolated, limited existence. The film concerns itself with such lofty stuff as the inner workings of the human soul with a simplicity and skill that will, I predict, both touch and enthrall you. Check it out.

Half Nelson

Ryan Fleck directed this movie about an inner-city junior high school teacher, Dan Dunne (played by Ryan Gosling), with a drug habit who forms an unlikely bond with one of his students after she discovers his secret. While Dan wants to steer his new-found friend in the right direction, he is hardly a role model. Gosling’s performance as the charming but flawed teacher is very believable. You’ll find you have sympathy for him in spite of his capacity for self-destruction. Shareeka Epps is equally convincing as his tough but sensitive young friend, Drey.

Set in Brooklyn, Half Nelson has a gritty sensibility that eschews the seeking-to-inspire cliches of teacher-student films as well as the obligatory violence of films set in the ghetto. The title refers to a wrestling move where you turn an attacker’s strength back on him (or her). In this case, Dan is an idealistic teacher who turns the attack on himself by inspiring his students by day and using crack cocaine at night. His behavior is put into perspective as we learn he was raised by liberal activists parents and understand that Dan wants to make a difference but has become frustrated and burnt out (like many on the Left today), allowing himself to drift into a self-induced stupor. Still, he continues to believe in social justice and the possibility of change and this shows in his teaching. If you don’t mind a little ambivalence in your movie message, try Half Nelson on for size. You won’t be sorry.