Parents' Guide to Princess of the Row

This emotional drama focuses on a girl coming of age while dealing with her father's brain injury and mental illness. Princess of the Row might seem like a family drama on the surface, but it brings up poignant issues about veterans' care and the care of children in the U.S. foster care system. Gathegi does a tremendous job as Bo, who comes in and out of lucidity as he lives in memories of his PTSD from war. Granted, Gathegi isn't someone who lives with PTSD in real life, which could upset some disabled viewers, especially since there's a movement to have more authentic casting in such roles. That said, Gathegi gives a moving portrayal of a U.S. veteran who's been disregarded by his government and the American people. Hopefully, this will make viewers more conscious of some of the shortcomings the U.S. government has to account for in regards to how it treats veterans.

Buck also does excellent work as Alicia, a complex role that requires an especially talented young actor. Buck invests all of herself into the character, taking viewers on an emotionally resonant journey. By the end of the film, you'll hope that Buck becomes a huge name in Hollywood. The rest of the cast -- including Brown, Ortiz, Sheen, Gago, and Vargas -- help buoy the film with their solid performances. Overall, the film is impressive on both the acting and storytelling fronts and likely to leave audiences in tears and with a full heart.