Jamesy Boyby Wilson Morales
Despite a bravado performance by newcomer Spencer Lofranco, Trevor White’s ‘Jamesy Boy,’ is a gritty, coming-of-age drama can’t escape the typical cliche plot points we’ve seen in films.
With a supporting cast that includes veteran actors Mary-Louise Parker, Ving Rhames, James Woods, along with Taissa Farmiga, Rosa Salazar, and Michael Trotter, it’s a shame that some of the performances are relegated to one characters or roles that don’t require much of a stretch, especially from Rhames, who’s played this sort of role in other films.
Through flashbacks we see the person that James was and is trying to become. From robbing stores, getting in fights to putting his life back in order, James didn’t have much of a father figure until he meets fellow prisoner, the convicted murderer Conrad (played by Rhames). Adversaries at first, friendship then ensues to the point where James is starting see that being tough everyday could bring a short lease on life.
Although the film is based on a true story, White uses the flashbacks as a camouflage to divert the audience from realizing we’ve seen this story before. James’ relationship with Sarah (Taissa Farmiga) does offer something refreshing and adds to the highlight. In the end, seeing a fresh face in a formulaic drama does offer something new to the acting world.
