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From Nowhere
By Jeffrey Anderson,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Timely, gritty drama follows undocumented NYC teens.
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What's the Story?
In FROM NOWHERE, three promising high school students -- Moussa (J. Mallory McCree), Sophie (Octavia Chavez-Richmond), and Alyssa (Raquel Castro) -- are all undocumented immigrants who attend a tough Bronx high school, where they're just trying to fit in and survive. Moussa's family has trouble paying the rent, while Sophie deals with quasi-abusive relatives. Their teacher, Jackie (Julianne Nicholson), sends them to an immigration lawyer (Denis O'Hare) in hopes of getting them into college and giving them a future. The lawyer informs them that what really counts is how deadly their home countries were. During a chat with Moussa's mother, Jackie discovers that Moussa may have the key to his case, but pride and duty could still get in the way.
Is It Any Good?
Director Matthew Newton delivers an earnest drama that's more about its highly relevant message than its technique. From Nowhere consists of mostly medium-distance talking scenes, with the hand-held camera constantly wobbling slightly at the edges. The few would-be dynamic moments include a near-altercation with the cops and a near-attack by an abusive relative. But the film still succeeds in underlining the plight of undocumented teens and the tough realities they face.
While the film suffers a bit from an over-serious, important tone, the strong performances and vivid characters are strong positives. At times, it's almost possible to believe that it's a documentary about three real teens and their real struggles. Chavez-Richmond is especially compelling, wearing a permanent frown, and, when possible, a hooded coat to protect herself from any kind of emotional invasion. Nicholson is wonderful as a helpful teacher who bends the rules a little, and O'Hare lends some acerbic notes of harsh reality, as well as some surprising compassion. This movie has the power to open a few eyes and change a few minds.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what From Nowhere has to say about immigrants in America. Does it seem pro, con, or a mix? What makes the issue so complicated? How relevant is the film's story to current events?
How does the movie depict teen drinking. Do the teens drink frequently, or only on certain occasions? Is their behavior glamorized? What are the consequences?
How is sex portrayed? Do the teens' romantic relationships seem appropriate or inappropriate? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
How important is family to these characters? Is family any more or less important for them than it is for anyone else?
Movie Details
- In theaters: March 17, 2017
- On DVD or streaming: April 6, 2017
- Cast: Julianne Nicholson , Denis O'Hare , J. Mallory McCree
- Director: Matthew Newton
- Inclusion Information: Female actors
- Studio: FilmRise
- Genre: Drama
- Topics: High School
- Run time: 89 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: June 20, 2023
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