Jesus' Son

2000
6.9| 1h47m| R| en
Details

A young man turns from drug addiction and petty crime to a life redeemed by a discovery of compassion.

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Reviews

ada the leading man is my tpye
Manthast Absolutely amazing
Staci Frederick Blistering performances.
Dana An old-fashioned movie made with new-fashioned finesse.
moonspinner55 Billy Crudup, as an aimless young screw-up and pill-popper in 1970s Chicago, has the mannerisms of a user down right, yet he doesn't convince as an addict. While riding on the dirty subway cars in the darkened city, interacting with the street life and the strays he seems to attract, Crudup certainly has the appropriate glassy-eyed expression and sheepish grin, but he's too lean and muscular and healthy-looking to be taken for a troubled junkie. The film, an adaptation of Denis Johnson's book of short stories, has been fairly well realized by director Alison Maclean (who has a vivid eye for detail); unfortunately, the protagonist isn't really a character at all, and this isn't entirely Crudup's fault. He hasn't been conceived as anything but a walking foul up, one with fabricated answers and--in his narration--'deep thoughts' soaked in the smugness of an elevated consciousness. Many stars help out in support, yet the film is less a dramatic achievement than an arty, somewhat indifferent passel of scenes. ** from ****
noralee I chose to see "Jesus' Son" for Billy Crudup and director Allison Maclean, who did the terrifically creepy romantic short I saw on the Sci Fi Channel a few weeks ago, "Kitchen Sink." "Jesus' Son" is a picaresque road movie traveling through addictions, and manages to miss wallowing in the depression that made "Leaving Las Vegas" so unrelenting . Samantha Morton has incredible chemistry with Crudup who is fascinating to keep watching even as his character is a passive naif whom we really don't learn anything about. My biggest complaint is that the cameos by recognizable and/or famous actors (Denis Leary, Jack Black of "High Fidelity," Holly Hunter, Dennis Hopper) make the source material of short stories--which I assume are where the chapter headings come from-- too obvious; I would have preferred intriguing character actors or complete unknowns.This is one of those "little movies" where you see a filmmaker in love with her tools of the medium, because it is both literate and explores the story visually, with judicious use of fantasies and hallucinations.The Joe Henry musical score is wonderful, and the soundtrack selection of alt.country, including several Wilco songs, and offbeat rock and r & b classics are also commentaries on the action (amusingly the only Henry song used comes in over the radio that an annoyed Crudup turns off in order to hear the dialog).(originally written 6/24/2000)
roberk I loved this movie. Having grown up in the 70's, the music and fashion were right on. It gives a good glimpse into the life of a drug oriented drifter from that period. The character grows throughout the movie....along with some dark comedy. One of my favorite parts was the "party scene" when he meets Michelle (her dancing was awesome). The music at the party was so typical of the era. Another was when he was an "orderly" at the hospital. That is a scene not to be missed. All in all, I really enjoyed this movie. I would watch it or rent it again. Put on your suede fringed jacket before watching this one. It will bring up some memories of how it was. Peace, Man!
Devon Grey This left me slightly confused, but with some degree of hope. Too many random events that lead nowhere. FH was really lost, without focus and the narrative of the story reflected that fact. He meant well but was easily swayed into doing very stupid things, and allowing people to take advantage of him. He is a true innocent in many fashions, without anyone to guide him. I was surprised to see as many recognisable celebrities in this movie playing such small roles. If you enjoyed Drugstore Cowboy, then you'll enjoy this movie. Nice use of computer FX to alter reality too. Interesting all around although pointless at times... much like our lives. No mention of his family.. parents.. leaves you wondering if he's just a homeless drifter.. like Jesus perhaps? the truth is left unknown..