Parents' Guide to Kin

This is a genre-blending, expectation-defying brother-bonding road movie/action thriller with sci-fi elements -- and it all works somehow. Kin, the promising feature debut from brothers/directors Jonathan and Josh Baker (based on their short, Bag Man) feels like a low-key indie about a struggling kid and his screw-up brother finally getting to know each other amid some pretty scary peril. Then there's this otherworldly weapon thrown into the mix, and we're in sort of Stranger Things territory (producer Shawn Levy is also an executive producer on that show). A lot could go wrong, especially with a newcomer in the lead, but the Bakers' grounded direction and the strong performances make it an unusual, fun experience. The indie sensibility includes effectively creating atmosphere and tension without relying on visual effects or rapid cutting. There are no startle attempts, and no one jumps out of cupboards. The few action sequences are much more effective than most because we're immersed in the brothers' reality.

Truitt and rising star Reynor (Sing Street) make a natural pair. Reynor's sly, lovable-loser charm shines as a character who makes some very bad decisions. All of the main characters are flawed but somehow form a believable familial bond anyway. The slam-bang finale is well staged and exciting, spinning the story forward intriguingly. Kin may disappoint those looking for a sci-fi thrill ride, but its focus on characters and relationships makes its action and story all the more effective. Unlike so many failed, cynical-feeling attempts at franchise starters out there, Kin actually deserves a sequel.