American Son

Despite a strong reception at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, Neil Abramson's feature American Son didn't receive a theatrical release, even though this thoughtful drama approaches the touchy subject of the U.S. occupation of Iraq at a mature level, and offers excellent performances by frequently overlooked actors. Nick Cannon (currently the host of TV's America's Got Talent) plays Mike, a 19-year-old Marine on a brief Thanksgiving leave from Camp Pendleton, CA. Mike is being shipped off to Iraq, but is unable to tell his family about his upcoming orders. A chance encounter with lovely young Cristina (Melonie Diaz) offers a romantic diversion to a stressful family reunion and hookups with friends who aren't entirely supportive of Mike's military career. The film covers the politics of Iraq without becoming shrill, emphasizing the gap between apathetic young Americans who ignore the occupation and those who are ready to give their lives for that cause. Cannon and Diaz's chemistry is strong, and the pair are ably backed with supporting turns from Jay Hernandez as a vet injured in Iraq and Tom Sizemore as Mike's reserved stepfather. A solid under-the-radar film, this is recommended. [Note: DVD extras include audio commentary (by director Abramson and producers Danielle Renfrew and Michael Roiff), a behind-the-scenes featurette (12 min.), and deleted scenes. Bottom line: a solid extras package for a fine drama.] (P. Hall)[Blu-ray Review—Mar. 26, 2013—Echo Bridge, 86 min., R, $14.99—Making its first appearance on Blu-ray, 2008's American Son sports a fine transfer and a DTS 5.1 soundtrack. Bonus features include audio commentary by director Neil Abramson and producers Danielle Renfrew and Michael Roiff, a behind-the-scenes featurette (12 min.), and deleted scenes (3 min.). Bottom line: a welcome Blu-ray debut for this solid drama.]