Boyhood Review

Director: Richard Linklater.

Starring:  Ellar Coltrane, Patricia Arquette, Ethan Hawke, Lorelei Linklater.

Certificate: 12A

Synopsis:  The life of a young man, Mason, from age 5 to age 18.

BOYHOOD is an ambitious piece of film-making, as it was made over twelve years with the same actors used for every stage. Richard Linklater, the man behind BEFORE MIDNIGHT, BEFORE SUNSET and BEFORE SUNRISE, offers viewers the chance to experience the true journey of boyhood as the star of the film, Ellar Coltrane, grows up before your very eyes.

In the film, Mason (Coltrane) and his family are forced to move a few times, deal with the acrimonious relationship of the divorced parents and new people who come along and join the family. There is the issue of girls to consider when he becomes old enough to care and that first time he tries alcohol and smoking a joint. There are also hilarious cultural references throughout the film, as they support Obama’s bid for president, watch Lady Gaga videos and talk about the future of STAR WARS.

The ensemble cast, which includes Patricia Arquette and Linklater favourite Ethan Hawke, are so superb in their roles you never stop to think that they are actually acting. The whole film just flows by with ease as Linklater explores the imperfection and beauty of humanity. Hawke, as the father, has some of the most hilarious, awkward and endearing scenes, talking to his children about sex, religion and the magic in the world. Arquette, in contrast, has the more serious scenes of the film as she is the constant parent in their lives and gets more of the lows. Both parents make numerous mistakes along the way but are evidently doing the best they can.

Though what made this film so intriguing was the very unique way it was made, this is never used as a gimmick. The whole film has such a raw, real feel to it that it’s almost like watching a documentary unfold. However, Linklater understands that this is a film, not a documentary, and therefore makes it compelling enough for an audience to sit through. The characters are all interesting and contribute to the film’s dynamic in their own way and, with a great script and superb cast, this brave, ambitious project manages to be an insightful, powerful piece of filmmaking however you look at it.

BOYHOOD truly is cinematic history in the making, a stunning film full of heart and honesty.

[usr=5] BOYHOOD is released in the UK on 11th July 2014