I felt compelled to write a review for this remarkable film once I realized nobody else had bothered to do so! Even the IMDb bating of 6.7 is baffling. This is a fantastic story that was nominated for several awards...I can only equate the neglect for this beautiful piece of art with the same unfeeling neglect experienced by the child in the movie.
The Quiet One is about Donald, a poor and lonely black child from Harlem. His isolation from the world around him is two-fold--his inability to articulate himself intellectually or emotionally, and the distant treatment he receives from his grandmother, mother, and step- father. Literally, the step-father doesn't even acknowledge the boy's presence. Donald attempts to connect with the people in his life, even going so far as to try to make friends with a couple of rough older boys who rob him of his ill-gotten sweets. He isn't successful. Pain, anger, confusion and loneliness drive Donald to an act that gets him sent away for rehabilitation. Will Donald be able to overcome his emotional traumas and finally connect with others in a meaningful way?
This touching movie is a painful experience and doesn't cop out with a pat Hollywood conclusion, however it is ultimately a rewarding journey. The narration gives it a realistic feel, the locations are fantastic (especially the scenes shot in the city) and the music is appropriately moody. The characters seldom speak, but the acting is nonetheless strong enough to carry the film.
The Quiet One is about Donald, a poor and lonely black child from Harlem. His isolation from the world around him is two-fold--his inability to articulate himself intellectually or emotionally, and the distant treatment he receives from his grandmother, mother, and step- father. Literally, the step-father doesn't even acknowledge the boy's presence. Donald attempts to connect with the people in his life, even going so far as to try to make friends with a couple of rough older boys who rob him of his ill-gotten sweets. He isn't successful. Pain, anger, confusion and loneliness drive Donald to an act that gets him sent away for rehabilitation. Will Donald be able to overcome his emotional traumas and finally connect with others in a meaningful way?
This touching movie is a painful experience and doesn't cop out with a pat Hollywood conclusion, however it is ultimately a rewarding journey. The narration gives it a realistic feel, the locations are fantastic (especially the scenes shot in the city) and the music is appropriately moody. The characters seldom speak, but the acting is nonetheless strong enough to carry the film.