MOVIE DETAILS
Rating: 6.0 out of 10
Director: Dale Peterson
Writer: Dale Peterson, Margaret Kerrison, Christine Bartsch
Star: arrett M. Brown, Rachel DiPillo, Mary Kate Wiles
Genres: Comedy/Drama
Release Date: May 17, 2016 (United States)
Hello My Name Is Frank
Syndrome. One hears that word and for the most part, it would be safe to assume a negative connotation. Being associated with the signs and symptoms that come along with various disorders and diseases, the word has such heaviness and stigma surrounding it that it’s hard to see anything light-hearted or funny about it at all. But for Frank Brown (Garrett M. Brown), it is simply a part of his everyday life: he has Tourette Syndrome. Still reeling from the recent loss of his caregiver an event which was crucial in more ways than one Frank is clearly not going to last long on his own. The daughter of said caregivers soon finds herself in a predicament; Laura (Rachel DiPillo) worries for Frank, feeling the need to take care of him but therefore putting her own life on hold.
It also happens that Laura and her two friends Kim (Mary Kate Wiles) and Alisa (Hayley Kiyoko) have a desire to go on a road trip in honor of their friend who passed away as well. So when they do not find any new caregivers of quality who can watch Frank the girls ultimately end up bringing him along with them on this adventure. And what an adventure it becomes, as each person shares their individual world views and general attitudes toward others while battling them out against each other; meanwhile around Frank swirls an entirely alien reality, one that may or may not be ready to accept his affliction. But through everything they find love, friendship and understanding can truly conquer all.
Now My Mind:
Just so you know I’m usually not for watching movies that throw around this much foul language; especially in today’s modern comedy context where lackluster humor seems to rely heavily upon shock value alone but here’s why I still found myself entertained by Dale Peterson’s latest film despite its excessive use of expletives: There were times when it felt like some lines had been forced in just because somebody thought they needed to be vulgar somewhere along the line (which wasn’t necessary), but for the most part everything fits within context; there’s never an instance where someone swears without reason or purpose behind their words. This being said, I can understand why a lot of people might view this as offensive material, and if that’s how you feel then fair enough you’re entitled to your opinion!
Now, moving on
What Peterson does do well though is he doesn’t shy away from showing us those hard realities about Tourette Syndrome while still having fun with them too which was great! And let’s not forget the fact that this film actually made me laugh out loud multiple times; something most comedies haven’t been able to do in years! The irreverent humor mixed with seriously poignant moments makes for one helluva combination here folks; add in some plucky performances by a talented cast who were clearly all-in when it came down to bringing these characters life BAM! You’ve got yourself an instant classic right there.
Let’s talk about Garrett M. Brown for a second shall we? His portrayal of Frank alone is worth the price of admission my friends no joke. There are moments where he lets loose those outbursts associated with Tourette’s and damn if they aren’t hilarious every single time. But here’s thing people need to remember: whatever funny bone may get tickled during these scenes should never come at expense understanding what causes them; it’s called empathy folks! So yes while on surface level these tics seem like nothing more than random acts done solely purpose making others laugh at his expense there’s so much beneath surface waiting be discovered. It takes true talent bring both comedy tragedy together in such beautiful way like did throughout this entire performance.
And speaking beauty, let me tell you Rachel DiPillo brought whole lot of into role Laura an absolute star turn that was both heartwarming heartbreaking all at once. She manages juggle this delicate balance between strength vulnerability throughout her performance which just blew me away honestly; it’s really rare see actress own every scene she’s featured in like does here folks. But wait there’s more: Mary Kate Wiles Hayley Kiyoko also deliver some seriously standout work as Kim Alisa respectively too! These three women truly had chemistry together onscreen made their characters feel real believable from start finish bravo ladies, BRA-VO!
Now here comes part where I try wrap things up by summarizing everything we’ve talked about thus far but honestly there’s just so much say still remains unspoken words cannot contain it all within one little paragraph alone my friends. So if haven’t figured out yet whether or not should go see Dale Peterson’s new movie then let me make myself clear right now: GO SEE THIS MOVIE!!!! Seriously though folks, don’t miss out on something special like what he managed accomplish with his latest effort here trust me when tell ya won’t be disappointed!
Just as much fantastic is Wiles in the role of Kim who is gentle, vulnerable and a Christian that wants to do right by everyone and see the best in them and everything else for that matter; although sometimes her faith can result into some kind of innocence about certain life choices or what she thinks others know or don’t know about her. Alisa (Kiyoko) on the other hand being one wild free spirit among this group which the actress definitely plays up but you always get the feeling that no matter how it may look at times, she’s got their backs till the end. Supporting performances from Travis Caldwell, Wayne Duvall, Brent Briscoe, Tess Harper et al also contribute to these dramatic and/or comedic elements.
Essentially “Hello, My Name Is Frank” becomes one those films you hope will raise awareness to Tourette Syndrome when people watch it while not disrespecting the disease even for a single moment throughout its funny moments shared together too so please let it be seen widely enough! As a matter of fact this film shows that individuals living with TS can still lead normal lives provided there’s little understanding from friends as well family members who care.
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