Social Question
Do you know about any movies that deal with problem children/teenagers?
I watched this Canadian movie called Little Criminals years ago in school, and found it again online yesterday. It deals with this 11 year old boy, Des. He’s rather neglected by his mother, and spends most of his time committing crimes, like burglary and insurance fraud. (setting places on fire, and collecting some money from the owner after) He does all sorts of drugs, and is a pain in the ass to anyone who encounters him. However, he’s very charismatic and wise, and many other young delinquents look up to him. He has his own type of gang, and even the adults are often puzzled, frightened or moved by him.
However, deep inside, Des is tormented and hurt beyond repair, and seeks to die, which is why he always goes all out. A lot of this can be picked up through his drawings, which he keeps secret from everyone, but it becomes very apparent later on how much of a mess he is inside.
The story centers around his meeting with Corey, another troubled young boy, who simply can’t accept his family situation. His mother’s going out with this dude, and Corey totally resents him. He’s also quite violent, and got kicked out of his school for fighting. (he ends up going to Des’s school, and if Canada actually has a school like that, it needs to reevaluate its educational system XD ) Shy and reserved, Corey never expresses himself, unless it’s through fighting, but only if messed with. He’s not as headstrong or able like Des.
When they meet, they become friends fast, as it seems both have something the other needs, and Corey ends up in Des’s gang. Then the shit really starts hitting the fan, as the story declines further and further into tragedy. Some of the acting is a bit odd, but the movie is really sad, although quite entertaining.
So this is an example of the type of movie I’m looking for. Stuff about problem children, teenagers, or stories about youth and crime. Can you recommend anything?