Reach

By: Robert Warren

In what could be your final thoughts before committing suicide, you think of the people surrounding you and the influence they have had on your life. All it takes is one person to save a life and the movie Reach does a great job of advocating that, making this movie a must-see film. The message behind this movie is stunning as it explores the influence people have upon one-another, which is phenomenal. Reach is one of those pictures where the message goes beyond the film and after watching it is clear that this will be a movie to be talked about. Navigating the themes of resentment after a loved one passes, school bullies, alcoholism, drugs, parental guidance (or lack thereof) escapism and the influence people have on each other there is much to discuss with this incredible film.

As a teenager, navigating the school halls is not always easy when you find yourself feeling like a distanced, out of place, misfit in society or socially awkward in your life. The role of the parent plays an importance during these times as they find themselves a guide for their children, but what if there is a lack of guidance? We meet school bully Nick Perkins (Jordan Doww) whose dad Jack (Kevin Sizemore) was a former officer that worked alongside school peer Steven Turano’s (Garrett Clayton) dad Steve (Bojesse Christopher). However, as time has passed, Nick’s dad became an alcoholic that began taking his aggression out on his son. Nick does not really have an outlet, so he takes it out on bullying other students like Steven, who is looking into a pro-suicide group. Luckily, fellow student Clarence West (Johnny James Fiore) comes along and becomes just the person that Steven needs and who could potentially save his life.

When it comes to characterization this movie nails it, especially with the offbeat and likable performance of Clarence West by Fiore. Oddly enough, after dropping Steven home from school one day, West is insistent on picking him up in the morning, so he does not have to wake up very early to go with his dad. It is this instant friendship and pushing to hang out with Steven that gets him to open up and escape his introverted mentality. Fiore does a great job of playing that pushy character who is mysterious yet cool, which gives him a likability in this film and keeps the audience wanting to know more. The influence West has on Steven’s life is incredible, so it is important that West be played right. Well done, Johnny James!

What made Reach work so well was the script by Grant Harling, Johnny James Fiore and Maria Capp. The message was strong, and the themes were phenomenal. Director Leif Rokesh did a great job of blocking this to create intimate moments with each of the characters. There is one scene where Nick comes home to his dad, who was drinking heavily, and there is about to be an aggressive attack. It was stunningly believable in how the scene played out, showing great intensity without giving anything away.

The movie stands outs as each of these characters are built upon in their intimate at home spaces and are then interlocked together after we, as the audience, have formed bonds with each of them. As the scenes fly by this movie only gets better and better. With great writing, directing, acting and themes this movie is definitely a beauty and worth the reach!

Watch The Trailer for Reach on YouTube