Choose Connor

Think Almost Famous, substitute politicos for rock stars, and you'll have an idea of what to expect from Choose Connor, a political drama with a powerful message about the perils of youthful idealism. Socially awkward but bright 15-year-old Owen Norris (Alex Linz) impresses local senatorial candidate Lawrence Connor (Steven Weber), who asks the lad to join his campaign, but Owen's enthusiasm later evaporates when he learns that Connor is involved with a ring of gay pedophiles. Erstwhile teen actor Luke Eberl (2001's Planet of the Apes, Letters from Iwo Jima)—who wrote, directed, and edited this film at the age of 21—allows the film to become somewhat sidetracked by the nascent sex scandal, while also lavishing too much time on the relationship between Owen and Connor's nephew (well played by Escher Holloway), which ultimately waters down his sharp and cynical take on the political system. Nonetheless, Eberl—who exhibits a solid grasp of directorial technique and sure handling of his cast—is a promising young filmmaker from whom we're likely to be hearing more. Recommended, overall. (E. Hulse)