Parents' Guide to Snow Angels

This darkly poetic film is based on a novel by Stewart O'Nan. Its characters explore the boundaries of what is acceptable and what is desirable in relationships. The violence in the movie attempts to explore themes of faith and abandonment, though it seems inevitable -- even ingrained. Overall the performances are outstanding, with perhaps the exception of Kate Beckinsdale's Annie, who for a brief moment when she ends things with her lover, seems to forget that a tragedy has taken place. Teens will be entranced by the budding romance, but alternately disturbed by the proximity of other people's problems.

"We're all part of a formation," says Arthur's teacher at band practice. "Every person matters. Every step is in anticipation of the next." This statement becomes a credo for this haunting film, as events of the past weeks untangle. Director David Gordon Green (Pineapple Express) paints a sensual, haunted portrait of contemporary post-industrial America. This is a land where evangelical ideals mingle with furtive trysts in motel rooms. Where bleak winter scenes and dark interiors are warmed by the sensuality of first love. It's also a place where devotion turns to violence, and silence is interrupted by terse emotional outbursts. The characters who have fewer illusions about their lives -- like Arthur and his mom -- are rewarded. Those who are steeped in illusion suffer a grim fate. Could this be a cautionary tale for our time? Green is a director to watch, and fans will enjoy this cornerstone of his repertoire.