Touted as one of the best independent releases of the year; The Son of Rambow lives up to all its hype. This movie originally aired at the 2007 Sundance Festival and made its theatrical release in 2008 and since then has garnered much praise and publicity. This movie about friendship, family and good times is one that I think will be as well received as the surprisingly huge phenomenon Napoleon Dynamite. It has many qualities of the aforementioned and despite its limited availability (In the U.S. it is only available through Best Buy and at all major rental outlets) I think Son of Rambow will be the next breakthrough independent comedy to hit the video shelves.
Will Proudfoot is a young boy who lives a secluded life and he seeks an escape from the mundane life that he lives. Due to religious convictions Proudfoot cannot watch television of any kind so he resorts to his outlandish imagination to keep him entertained. While sitting out in the hall in school Will meets troublemaker Lee Carter who finds himself out in the hallway at school more than he is in the classroom. At first meeting Carter sees Proudfoot as a naïve boy who he can profit from, but eventually this unusual friendship turns into a bond that almost nothing can destroy. The two boys set out to make a film that they hope will win them a young film maker competition. In their quest to make a visual masterpiece the boys learn lessons about the hardships of friendships, loyalty to family and the pressures of trying to “fit in” at school. This unique film takes place in England during the 1980’s and captures the era perfectly, all the way from the music, the clothing and trends of this time.
Son of Rambow is a must see movie. If you are looking for a break from the high budget over rated showcases that are out today then this is the DVD for you. It is a simple grass roots comedy that takes the viewer back to the nostalgic 80’s and touches on the importance of friendship, family and using your imagination. I would recommend this movie to any child of the 80’s and to anyone looking for a lighthearted comedy who wants a change from the norm.
Reviewed by Jeff Holton
