christianmomreview

The film wasn't rated, but I think it would probably be a PG or PG13 movie. There is some smoking, some mild violence and one or two curse words. Knowing this, I will leave it up to you, if you think appropriate for your children, but I am very comfortable with my 9 and 14 year olds watching the movie.

The characters played by David Strathairn, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Julian Feder and Julie Ann Emery are all good realistic characters and are acted well. The story is about a young man and his father, who are in the middle of making some bad choices and Joe (David Strathairn) has already made his and has been suffering for years.

The young man, Dallas (Julian Feder), is searching for his father, who has left him for a life on his own playing pool. Dallas is at first reluctantly helped by Joe. However, when the boy shows a kind gesture, Joe continues to help him. In some ways, Joe was like Cal (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) at a period in his life (we later learn he suffered a tragedy), but has learned and continues to learn through Dallas the importance of friendship and fatherhood. With each others help, Joe and Dallas find some redemption and peace. The Cal character leaves with issues still to be resolved. I won't give it away.

I really appreciated the selflessness and mentorship expressed in the film. I was tremendously moved by the ending and hopeful for Joe. I recommend this film.