KO Review 10000 Saints
A KO Review by Emily Mody
10,000 Saints is a feature length narrative film directed by Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini. The film follows a teenager named Jude (played Asa Butterfield) who moves to live with his estranged father, Les (played Ethan Hawke), in Manhattan. Jude connects with his stepsister, Eliza (played Hailee Steinfeld) and his best friend’s brother Johnny (played by Emile Hirsch) who both live in Manhattan as well. As they spend more time together their situation grows increasingly complicated.
I thought that 10,000 Saints was solid. I enjoyed it and it was an interesting watch. I thought that the discussion of the straight edge lifestyle during the 1980s was pretty interesting. Johnny was literally surrounded by drugs, sex, and alcohol, especially considering the fact that he was a hardcore musician in Manhattan. Whereas most people rebel by looking to particular vices, the straight edge lifestyle exhibits rebellion from society’s expectations by turning away from those vices. It is a really interesting concept and I was intrigued to see a story written about it. I actually did not know that Emile Hirsch was in 10,000 Saints and I was so happy to see him. I have been a fan of his ever since I saw him originally in Lords of Dogtown directed by Catherine Hardwicke. 10,000 Saints had a really amazing cast. Besides the actors and actresses mentioned above, the talent also included Henry Kelemen, Emily Mortimer, and Julianne Nicholson. I thoroughly enjoyed all of the cast members. They did an excellent job of communicating the story with sincerity.
I would compare 10,000 Saints to Lords of Dogtown. Lords of Dogtown is based on the true story of the original z-boys and the development of modern skateboarding as a professional sport during the 1970s in California. Many aspects of the two films are similar surrounding the issues of how young people deal with adult responsibilities. The films have a very similar vibe. Both films emphasize the energy of rebellious youth culture and they both make me smile because of it. I would say that both films are equally dramatic and discuss the consequences of problematic decisions. I enjoy both films for many of the same reasons.
I would recommend 10,000 Saints to people who enjoy a good drama film that does not shy away from sensitive subject matter. 10,000 Saints incorporates discussion of sex, drugs, and alcohol all involving teens. If these topics bother you I would definitely avoid this one. 10,000 Saints also discusses the hardcore music scene in Manhattan during the 1980s so if you are interested in music this might be a really good film for you. If you enjoyed Lords of Dogtown, Into The Wild, Savages or pretty much any film with Emile Hirsch in it you would probably like 10,000 Saints. If you are going to be in the Toronto area on April 22, 2016 10,000 Saints will be screening at the Carlton Cinema.
