The Butterfly Tattoo

Set in the less-academic sections of Oxford, England, Phil Hawkins' film follows 17-year-old Chris, who falls for free-spirited Jenny after he rescues her from a nasty situation at a dance. Although coming from different socioeconomic situations, they immediately find themselves emotionally connecting. Alas, each has a problem that places obstacles on their road to happiness: Jenny is trying to overcome childhood trauma and an unpleasant ex-boyfriend, while Chris gets sucked into his employer's problems with gangsters. The Butterfly Tattoo soars with genuinely winning performances by the handsome Duncan Stuart as Chris, and Jessica Blake, who provides remarkable texture to the character of Jenny. The chemistry between these two characters captures the depth of teenage love and angst, which helps overcome the mumbling English accents (which will be tough on American viewers) and an unsubtle violent climax. An interesting example of contemporary independent British filmmaking, this is recommended. (P. Hall)