User Reviews

For the people saying this movie is no good - you're way off. For the people saying it's one of the greatest movies of all time - you're way off. Why can't we just say that a movie is really good, not great? It's a really nice story with interesting characters. I'd recommend it to anyone that has an open mind. Bonus points to JT for playing a character so remarkably different than himself. It resonates for people especially from smaller towns or who have dealt with bullying growing up. I personally loved it, but I'd give it a solid 6 out of 10 in the grand spectrum of movies (and that's just fine).

Coming from a person who grew up absolutely despising "boy bands" and the like, Mr. Timberlake was often a butt of jokes in my circle. To be honest, I looked at him as a talentless fabrication in the 90's. I would have never imagined an entertainer that I looked at as so lacking prove me so wrong. I enjoyed this movie very much. The story was touching and the acting was very good but what brought it was Mr. Timberlake. I would have never have thought he could pull off a roll such as this. I give my rating because of his performance. Quite impressive to say the least. I almost equate this to Shia in "The Peanut Butter Falcon". Great job by all.

This is an engaging film about a felon and a boy who is different. The characters are developed very well, and the film makes you care about them a lot.

Before The Social Network was released back in 2010, I never thought of Justin Timberlake as an actor. Yes, he was solid in the film Alpha Dog, but I believe that being directed by David Fincher really broadened his horizons. Starring in films like Friends with Benefits, Trouble with the Curve, or even In Time, he has proven that there's more to him than meets the eye in terms of acting. Palmer only furthered those thoughts for me. While Timberlake never seems to choose projects that will win him awards, he's always very, very solid in whichever role he does take. Palmer has many similar tropes to movies you've seen before, but here's why the subject matter, along with a great central performance by Timberlake, warrants a viewing.

After serving time for over a decade, Eddie Palmer (Justin Timberlake) returns home to live with his grandmother, only to see that a troubled family lives next door. Their young boy Sam eventually forms a bond with Palmer, even though Palmer wants literally nothing to do with him when the film opens. Struggling to fit in for being different than other boys in his school, Palmer slowly becomes the father figure that this boy may just need in his life. This sort of premise has been done time and time again, just in different variations. What set it aside from all the others for me though, was the fact that the screenplay by Cheryl Guerriero was far better than I expected it to be.

Yes, when breaking the overall movie down, there are some very rushed aspects of the story in the third act, but the dramatic elements to the film felt very authentic. You could tell this was a story that came from the heart. I believed the majority of the dialogue that nearly every character had, which is why I also feel that this movie sputtered slightly towards the end. As much as I loved the dialogue written for these performers, the meat of the story is whether or not Palmer is the right fit for Sam and certain elements of that are sort of thrown away in the third act. There is a resolution to everything, but it feels rushed in comparison with the rest of the film.

Now to dive into the performances, because this is a film that relies heavily on selling the premise at hand. As I said, I've always enjoyed the on-screen presence of Justin Timberlake and I truly believe that there is an argument to be made here that he's never been better. I was engaged in this film because of his committed performance. On top of that, young Ryder Allen played off him incredibly well and their bond made this film so much more likeable. Alisha Wainwright as Maggie was also excellent, and Juno Temple as Sam's mother Shelly has a couple of scene-stealing moments as well.

In the end, Palmer is the type of film that's designed to be a tear-jerker and those types of films can feel extremely heavy-handed, but I'm just glad to say this one doesn't. It took me on an emotional journey and I was in tears by the end, but it never felt forced. Sadly, the conclusion is far too rushed and revelations and answers are brushed over multiple times. It's almost as though this movie was too focused on creating dramatic scenes that it forgot how to properly reach a conclusion. Still, I really enjoyed watching it and I believe it's worth your time. Palmer is now streaming on Apple TV+.

I don't know why in the hell people are complaining it's cliche, it's messy blah blah blah. You know form the previews what you're getting. An x-con with a heart of gold. A boy in the wrong body, gay, confused, trans and to top it off he's saddled with a druggie mom. You know what's going to happen. Doesn't make it any the less heartwarming and sweet. I think JT (Palmer) did a great job, I've always thought he was a decent actor. Sam was really good, as far a child actor go, I think he's got it! It's a feel good movie, so if you don't like that kind of movie, then don't watch it. Pretty simple if you ask me. If you like a sweet film then watch it.

This is a well acted but completely predictable movie. It has almost zero plot twists from the outset and you can pretty much see where it's going. It's a one and done plot, no deep sub plots or anything. But in this sense it's Ok, it's a nice little story. Just don't expect much depth to it. This is one you sit down, watch knowing what's gonna happen, and are OK with it.

Cinematography was good but it looked a little dark and dreary at times, probably to give mood. Like I said acting it pretty solid all around.

I've personally missed seeing Justin play. I hope to see more. This is a great movie. Nothing fancy, but very well done and played. By all of the actors. This is worth the watch if you consider this.

Despite of its clichéd and overdone nature of the narrative, Fisher Stevens' 'Palmer' offers a thought-provoking and emotionally powerful drama about acceptance and second chances. There are few films that are willing to approach the subject matter of gender identity and the bullying that comes from that, and yet this film knows how far to go and what the focus of the story should be about. Both Justin Timberlake and Ryder Allen deliver outstanding performances, as well as the rest of the cast.

JT is an incredible musician, humanitarian, and an incredible actor! He has been overlooked by the Academy for far too long. This quiet, understated performance may by his very finest role yet. The whole cast was so great that it was easy to forget that you were watching a movie. Everyone seemed like people I've known. The scrip was pitch perfect! Check this one out!

If you plan on watching this movie, skip the trailer as it contains a few spoilers.

I decided to watch this after seeing the reviews it was getting, luckily I hadn't watched the trailer. To me this was just ok. Overall it's a warming story and all the actors gave good performances, especially Justin Timberlake and the kid who plays 'Sam'.

However, the story along with Timberlake's character was slightly predictable and this isn't the type of movie that sticks with you that you remember for years to come.

While I enjoyed the relationship between the 2 main characters, there wasn't actually much drama between them or them having to overcome any obstacles / differences in their own relationship. Timberlake's character is pretty accepting of the boys character straight away, which isn't bad, but it doesn't provide any drama at all. Rather the drama for them comes from the rest of the world and this is what makes it predictable.

Nice story, great acting and nice emotional moments.

This movie is under rated because American reviewers get triggerred by gender related stories, even though the movie doesn't take any positions on those issues, it just shows you that those stuff do happen and they're not easy to deal with. I also see some complaining that the teacher was black. Yes people of different colors can fall in love, believe it or not.

Just enjoy the movie.

Gifted meets Sherrybaby. More movies should explore the good and the bad surrounding child protection systems. Of course, JT does well in a role that is perfect for him, but Ryder Allen is fantastic as Sam. His character reminded me of a child featured in the beautiful documentary I Am Eleven.

This movie is literally just a day to day of an excon that just got out of prison there wasn't much happing throughout the film except the last 30 minutes or so that it isn't even considered as a slow burner but i liked the relationship between palmer and the little boy and how it developed and the acting was also okey and i wasn't really bored especially in the last 30 minutes so overall it isn't a great movie it's just an ok movie

Without question, this is Justin Timberlake's best performance to date, yet it won't take a rocket scientist to determine how quickly Palmer (JT) and Sam (Ryder Allen) bond with each other, considering they're both outcasts in a southern town. Also, the story stumbles during its third act, coupled with the expected return of Sam's mother (Juno Temple) to the screen, still there is nothing she can do except looking alternatively pathetic and hysterical. It doesn't help that the film trots out so many clichés about the 'South' (and the hardscrabble folks who live there). In the end, nothing about this film is downright bad, but "Palmer" never lives up to what could have elevated the story and J. Timberlake's performance. Also, movie does nothing new in its story, playing safe rather than bringing something new to the table, being just a decent distraction from all the madness with COVID-19 pandemic right now, with some lovely moments between Timberlake and Allen that is primed for a reunion in something more deserving of their talents.

Rating: 6+ Watchable

... to give a low rating to this film! Acting by the lead actors is excellent and the story is not just heartwarming or just politically correct. This is a story about all the way acceptance - no questions, no doubts, no preaching about right and wrong! I expected that at some point Palmer, being the supposedly macho character in the film, would sit the boy down and explain a couple of things to him. But no, he didn't! And this is precisely what is great about Palmer and about "Palmer" the film. Full, absolute, acceptance: people, even little people, are who they are and sometimes there's no point to denying it, there's no point to trying to change them. Let us be as instinctively wise as Palmer and realize or feel when this is just the case!

With almost Every cliché imaginable in this type of film, with this type of content ( no Spoilers), it is still an okay watch, if not a must see.

Pretty cookie cutter characters falling I to their roles... man trying to redeem himself for his past transgressions, addicted mom, abusive boyfriend, caring teacher, helpful grandmother, tragic events, over understanding main characters, loveable child, it's really not challenging, but expected ( and not to hard to see where the story will go). The kid is not bad to watch, for his portrayal. It's one of those stories that "woke" people will like for its " progressive direction ( eyes roll), and others may see as an "agenda" film. Either way, it's not, as I said, groundbreaking, just more the idea that... the world will come around to embrace the boy ( no spoilers), eventually, even if at first they don't.

I guess if one must spend a lot of time confined to their home due to the present world situation, it's an okay escape of two hours that will pass quickly, as you can see what is coming next. So watch and feel good that the world is so embracing (not) and that there is hope for us all to accept (not).

Not the worst thing you will see, but probably not something you'll much remember in a day or so, but at least it's a break from superhero, action and teen flicks that streaming seems to be pumping out, showcasing so much of right now. Enjoy a break between the hours of those type of films on the streaming services.

I thought this movie was going to be another 2020, PC, manipulative tale of an "average joe hero". 'Palmer' exceeded my expectations and had an intelligent, powerful script with great actors fulfilling their roles and engaging the audience in every scene. Justin Timberlake has already proved himself to be a great actor and he clearly reached a little further down in this performance to bring a tonne of depth to his character. This movie highlights the multitude of life's unknown obstacles and the fact that no matter how hard things maybe, everyday brings a new sun.

I actually really liked this movie and I am not a huge Timberlake fan either... well music anyway but movie wise he has done some decent movie work... I just hated his boy band stuff... but this movie is not his music profession... this was a heart tugging film, was interesting and I'm not really into the whole new trans movement as I grew up in a different era. I am not against people doing what works for them... and I think I would react similarly even though I have no kids nor have been in prison.. but there is something about how the kid protraid his character... I think generally as long as a kid is supported in what they want to do and are treated well, that's a good start even if I may think it weird that a boy is playing like a girl... but this kid played the character so well, I can't imagine a real human not wanting to support them....Much like how Timberlake was in Black Snake Moan... it is interesting to see the development of damaged characters and helpful side characters... I'd watch this movie again... even if I could never see the redneck parts of america actually being able to support something like this in reality today even if I wish tolerance reached that far.. but it was really a decent film

If not for the kid I'd probably turn it off. Slow and no substance. I almost fell asleep. Expected more. Kid was great!

Really great little movie, that will really have you feeling your feels. Beautiful story of redemption, learning and growing into being a better person. Great acting and writing. You'll fall in love with little Sam, and Timberlake does a really good job of his role. Modern themes and a story that examples the foundations of good parenting, which is essentially loving your child and allowing them to be themselves regardless of social pressures and expectations. Highly recommend this film if you're in need of a feel good watch and a little restoration of your faith in humanity. Will easily rewatch again.

Gotta hand it to young Ryder Allen for a remarkable performance. Palmer is a great story that breaks your heart at moments, but also touches it and gives you hope in the potential for good in people. It was also well shot, edited, and composed.

The importance of second chances in a movie that with move your heart more than once, it maybe a little bit long but the feeling after watching it is something you won't regret.

Justin Timberlake make a performance so good about a man that find in a very special kid the opportunity to see things in a very different ways, to learn how to change and be good after everything bad that has happen in your life.

Life has very funny ways to make you better

Although official critics seemed generally (and I feel absurdly) rate the movie down, Indiewire gives a higher rating and the most accurate review by far. Timberlake is fab to watch... and contrary to what some of the critics say, he's a very strong central character. I'm not an ex con but can completely see how you might feel very protective of a character like Sam. The acting from all the characters is very involving and believable. The plot is short, and perhaps a little too simple... and unfortunately not so realistic... and actually, although some say it was predictable , it's perhaps easy to say that after the fact. I couldn't help feeling very relieved it finished the way it did! Had it gone another way (which was just as likely ) it would have been a sad movie. As it was it was a great relief. Yet again , the critics are out of touch with what actually makes a film enjoyable/ entertaining. The same people rate Taxi Driver or Jackie Brown so highly, yet neither will stir emotions and inevitably end up boring. Sure the acting and filming is quirky, and the stories are lovely and complex. But are they really that entertaining? It's just high art... which I love by the way, but it's got to entertain too. Pulp Fiction for example - high art AND very entertaining.

I guess it's about redemption and helping others through times of adversity.

Both my parents and my husband fell asleep.

The dog too.

I left 30 minutes before the end to go wash dishes and fold laundry.

Review brought to you by a Jessica Biel fan.