I loved the message in the movie, it was inspiring. But the film moved at a slow pace and felt too good to be real. It felt like a fairy tale, because in a way it is. It's not based on a true story.
It's true, so many minors have sad stories that force them into crime and because of it they end up on a bad path. And the story was inspiring to show how, one person willing to care can make a difference. And I hope there are places like this in today's world, But I think the fairytale aspect of the movie is that it shows one degree to the next in the persons life. And because of the change made in prison, these people are now set on the right path for life. Unfortunately, in reality when they get out it's going to very hard for them to stay on that path. And the degree of change felt a little over done.
Overall, the cast was okay, Cuba Gooding was amazing as always. Dewanada Wise was perfect, her acting really stood out. But unfortunately the lead actress Q'orianka Kilcher did not meet expectations for me. She didn't feel believable for me and it made it harder to watch when everyone else seemed to shine more then her. I think the movie could have used more firefighting action, it moved a little slow in this area. And seemed to be lacking in something.
Great message, clean film, but B rated cast and a lacking storyline.
