Powder (1995), Victor Salva

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Genre: Drama
Overall Rating:

(out of 5)

This movie is definitely unique, and I'd recommend seeing it at one point or another.  There are some interesting perspectives on life, God, and earthly choices, and if you're a softy like me, this one might wrench some tears out of you.

The Story:

(out of 5)

1 Point: Interesting

2 Points: Original

1 Point: Unpredictable

1 Point: OMGZ

An albino boy lives his life until his late teens living down in the shadows of his grandparent's basement.  Neighbors describe him as a phantom, and no one in this country state seems able to comprehend or handle the boy.  He's incredibly intelligent, and out of his vast library, he has memorized each and every text.  When his grandparents die, the police department escorts him to a nearby town to get him enrolled in school.  But if even the police department can't handle him, how will immature school boys?

Characters:

(out of 5)

1 Point: Well-Played

1 Point: Original

1 Point: Relatable

1 Point: Emotional Attachment

1 Point: OMGZ

Jessie Caldwell (Mary Steenburgen): Brought in by the police force, she seems to be one of the only ones in the movie who tries to look out for Powder's best interest.

Jeremy "Powder" Reed (Sean Patrick Flanery): The genius albino boy whose mother died giving birth, and whose father abandoned him.  He seems to have a deep connection with lightning, electricity, and nature.
Sheriff Doug Barnum (Lance Henrikson): While at first just as hostile as the rest, the Sheriff seems to sympathize for the boy and eventually connects when he employs Powder's help in a rather emotional and personal situation.

Believability:

(out of 5)

1 Point: No Disbelief

1 Point: Well-Explained

1 Point: Characters Fit Conceivably

1 Point: Not Foolishly Omniscient

1 Point: OMGZ

There are always some rare diseases spread throughout the population, so that part isn't too far-fetched. One thing that does seem a little over kill is the persecution the boy receives although I guess that can be explained due to the rural country town. Also, his mystical powers and genius seem a little unbelievable, but not enough so to bug you too much.

Weight:

(out of 5)
1 Point: Relatable Lives
1 Point: Relatable Choices
1 Point: "Wow" Moments
1 Point: Lasting
1 Point: OMGZ

This movie is very unique, and so will remain in mind through that, but perhaps not the movie quality overall or its meaning.  

Visual:

(out of 5)
2 Points: Visual Quality
1 Point: Unique Visual Perspective
1 Point: Special Effects
1 Point: OMGZ

It did look like it was made in the 90's, perhaps a "Lifetime" visual quality movie.