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Created Dec 18, 2009 09:35PM PST • Edited Dec 18, 2009 09:35PM PST

1. Quality

2. Summary

   Very Good 3.5

   Dakota Fanning is tremendous in this emotional film that deals with a troubling childhood in the deep American south. Elvis, a boy neighbor, and a sage-like older friends provide solace for this girl, who confronts daily doses of a challenging and some times depressing life. See this movie for its outstanding acting, deft handling of touchy subjects, and a setting that transports you to a different place.

4. Acting

   Great 4.0

   Dakota Fanning is a true standout as Lewellen. A wide range is evident. And… who knew she could sing? Kudos also to Cody Hanford as the gruff and abusive father who is turned to incoherency by a strike of lightning.

5. Male Stars Great 4.0

6. Female Stars Great 4.0

7. Female Costars Great 4.0

8. Male Costars Great 4.0

10. Film

    Very Good 3.5

    One of my faforite scenes is when Lewellen (Dakota) witnesses some real blues singing and discovers that “Hound Dog” wasn’t first sung by Elvis at all – instead a 50’s era pick-up band shows us where blues really comes from. This, and many other scenes that transport you to the 50’s era south are very well done and a hallmark of this film.

11. Direction Very Good 3.5

12. Play Very Good 3.5

13. Music Very Good 3.5

14. Visuals Very Good 3.5
15. Content

16. Edge

    Risqué 2.1

    Despite some touchy subjects, this movie treads lightly and tastefully.

17. Sex Titillating 2.1

18. Violence Fierce 2.1

19. Rudeness Salty 2.1

21. Reality

    Glib 1.5

22. Circumstantial Glib 1.5

23. Biological Glib 1.5

24. Physical Glib 1.5