Lean on Pete

"This is a compassionately observed story told with unimpeachable naturalism and without a grain of sentimentality, propelled by a remarkable performance from Charlie Plummer that's both internalized and emotionally raw." 

"Haigh’s approach is entirely counterintuitive, asking us to identify with the young man, even as the style throws obstacles in the way of such a connection. It’s frustrating to watch, but designed in such a way that the boy’s loneliness will haunt long afterward." 

"The story is propelled by its moral velocity, by the friction it finds between its characters. Each scene is so quietly compelling because Haigh doesn’t focus on cruelty, but helplessness" 

"Haigh brings his gifts as a filmmaker with him to the great outdoors, always capturing little moments of character and emotion (...) Your gut will be wrenched (...) but it’s also quite likely that your heart will be touched." 

"There’s a wistful quality to the storytelling which softens some of the sharper edges of tragedy and hardship in this undeniably affecting picture (...) It’s in the more intimate camerawork that we find the heart of the film" 

"If the trip feels familiar, that’s not necessarily a bad thing (...) Haigh’s film is never less than heartfelt and affecting. It cares deeply for Charlie and hopes we do, too (…) Rating: ★★★★ (out of 5)" 

"Charlie Plummer, 18 playing 15, with the looks of a teenage Christopher Walken, brings great presence to Charley — and we’re rooting for him all the way (…) Rating: ★★★★ (out of 5)"