Indie Gems: Joshua

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Is he Damien reincarnated?

That's kind of the feel you get from Joshua at first. That it will be just another creepy kid movie. While the cheap score certainly tries to push that theory, it is a little more than that.

Brad (Sam Rockwell) and Abby (Vera Farmiga) have just had a new baby. Abby mentions that she's struggled with postpartum depression in the past, but everything seems to be different with this baby. Their 10 year old Joshua (Jacob Kogan) starts to feel left out. Soon, strange things start to happen.

The interesting thing about Joshua is that the film gives us an opportunity to see things from Joshua's perspective, instead of only his parent's. Brad and Abby aren't the most nurturing parents around, and it's obvious they neglect Joshua. Sure, new babies take a lot of the attention, but neither are making an attempt to make sure Joshua's needs are met. So when crazy shit starts to happen, you can't exactly blame Joshua for seemingly acting out. When I first heard of this movie, I expected something supernatural, but there's nothing like that here. I can definitely see why they cast Jacob Kogan as young Spock in the Star Trek reboot. He's quite emotionless here, but he's not completely wooden. He makes Joshua's demeanor work.

One thing that is driving me nuts, what did Joshua whisper to his uncle? Is it important? Maybe not, but I wan't to know.

Grade: B

Memorable Quote: "No peeking.." - Joshua (Jacob Kogan)

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