MJ5K's Review

Summary - Very Good 3.5

The evolution of revolution.

Not so much a musical biopic as it is a “based on a true story” family drama, Nowhere Boy explores a good chunk of John Lennon’s childhood and the impact of the two most important women in his life: strict but caring Aunt Mimi (Kristen Scott Thomas) and “where have you been” Mom Julia (Anne-Marie Duff).

The film follows the teenage John (Aaron Johnson, delivering a “Kick Ass” performance) as he purchases his first guitar, rebels against the system, pals around with a young Paul McCartney (Thomas Sangster, or as I like to say “The good version of Freddie Highmore”), and twists and shouts his way to Hamburg.

One thing I thought would’ve made the film a bit more interesting is if it explored Lennon’s music to equal extents of the exploration of his personal life. True, his personal life was credential to a majority of his music, but I feel sharing the load would’ve helped the movie’s pace.

None the less, the cinematography is absolutely fantastic and the way first time director Sam-Taylor Wood (Johnson’s real life spouse) captures and recreates 1950’s Liverpool is very well done. The best aspect, however, is the acting. Johnson shines as Lennon while Thomas and Duff also sparkle.

Not exactly living up to the hype surrounding it nor being one of the greatest biopics in film history. However, Nowhere Boy makes up for its flaws with some fine performances and some (obviously) excellent music. Well worth renting.

Acting - Very Good 3.5

Film - Very Good 3.5

Edge - Sordid 3.2

Reality - Natural 1.0

1 Comment

• Wick Feb 9, 2011 12:49AM

  Regarding MetalJunky5000’s Review
  Excellent review MJ. Being a Beatlemaniac and a John fan, I’d wanted to see Nowhere Boy when it was in theaters. Now I don’t feel so bad about having missed it, but am damn sure putting it in my Gotta VuList.

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