Short Term 12 (2013) | agoodmovietowatch
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Short Term 12
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Movie

Short Term 12 2013

Sweet, slow-moving, and possibly life-changing, this American drama shines the light on the chaos and crises of social work in America

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Our Take (by Bilal Zouheir)

Understated in budget but lavished with praise, this semi-autobiographical drama by Daniel Destin Cretton flings its audience into the chaotic lives and personal crises of at-risk youths and the passionate social workers that aid them. In his first feature film, the young director draws the viewers into the storm of events and the emotional ups-and-downs of social work in America, going from uplifting to depressing and back – and every emotion in-between.

Set in the real-life and eponymous group home Short Term 12, devoted but troubled foster-care worker Grace is played by Brie Larson, whose shining performance in her first leading role was lauded by critics. Fans will also recognize the supporting actors Lakeith Stanfield and Rami Malek, who broke out in this movie. Short Term 12 is now considered one of the most important movies of 2013 – some say of the decade – owing to its immaculate writing, intimate camerawork, and gripping performances.

Notable Critics

"Despite the heavy subject matter, the film never bogs down into the daily grief it depicts, but maintains a jaunty current of humor that counterbalances its melodramatic content."

— Jonathan Robbins

"A barnstorming performance from Brie Larson is the reason to see this bittersweet drama of damaged teens."

— Adam Woodward

Synopsis

Grace, a compassionate young supervisor at a foster care facility, helps at-risk teens. But when a new charge dredges up memories of her own troubled past, Grace's tough exterior begins eroding.

Awards

Spirit Awards

1 win, 2 nominations

Won: Best EditingNominated: Best Female LeadNominated: Best Supporting Male

Nat. Board of Review

1 win

Won: Top 10 Independent Films

Comments

  1. I recently recognized the guy in the new season of Easy, and Brie Larson has become such a megastar. Honestly, this movie is so good that anyone who was affiliated with it deserves all the acclaim.

  2. I like how the movie started the same the way it ended. At the end things are different but being so connected with the characters, I felt deep happiness inside me.

  4. Honest portrayal of mental health issues that manages to be warm without overdoing anything. Top ten movie for me.

  5. I loved this movie. Despite some hard moments, I found myself smiling at the end of it. A must-watch.

  6. A really, really beautiful movie. Special mention to John Gallagher Jr and Keith Stanfield who felt so natural in their roles (like Brie Larson also did)

  8. I loved it… And i was soo upset that it did not recieve the attention it deserved

  9. one of my top 10 films ever. i spent some time growing up in a place just like this. no film has ever spoken to me more.

  10. The best movie i have seen on a long time. I pray these two people exist in real life. They are angels.

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About the author

Bilal Zouheir

Bilal Zouheir

Bilal Zouheir is the founder of A Good Movie to Watch. He is US-based and a member of the Nevada Film Critics Society. He grew up in Morocco, where he learned English from watching movies. Bilal's work with A Good Movie to Watch is focused on offering an alternative to streaming algorithms, which are often used as commercial tools by streaming services.