Il paradiso

The Lost Boys

Basically a French borstal mostly full of Arab boys. We watched the mundanity of their days whilst they awaited release or placement.

There was an effective "rant" scene by Joe that indicated a rage born out of disadvantage and ethnic discrimination. This was very much one side of the story as can be expected in this type of movie.

The script was vestigial as best but we had some committed performances.

The subplot themes of dislocation, a budding same sex relationship, identity politics and parental love were touched on. To my mind the "gay" elements were portrayed with a heterosexual audience in mind and lacked authenticity.

The dominating theme of rehabilitation and release did not play out well as it seemed obvious to me these children were in no way ready for the real world. At the very least they needed trades and apprenticeships.

At best this is a 3 outta 10, I was bored at the predictable stereotypes and there was just nothing new here.