DVD review: Being Flynn: An emotional journey of redemption for father and son

Movies are made to mirror everyday life and allow its viewers to journey to incredible trips in their imagination or give an enlightening perspective into unseen facets of life. One of the better outlooks on two prevalent issues in today’s society was recently released to home video. Being Flynn is a rousing, contemplative narrative that grants an eye opening glimpse into the life’s journey of a father and son who have a turbulent and tumultuous relationship but share a passion for the power of the written word. It gives the film a unique dual perspective on both of the men’s approach to the story. The film stars Paul Dano (Looper), Robert DeNiro (Killer Elite), Julianne Moore (Chole), Olivia Thirby (Dredd), Eddie Rouse (Pandorum), and Wes Studi (Avatar).
Being Flynn is a humbling, grounding experience which addresses one of the more relevant issues in today’s society, absentee fathers. The story of an estranged father and son who connect through mutual love and passion for writing. The movie is based on the Memoir “Another Bullshit Night in Suck City by Nick Flynn.”
The back story of the Flynn’s turbulent lives are told through a number of flashbacks. They’re used to establish the history of the two men’s relationship. Both have faced tumultrious experiences throughout the course of their lives. It’s a grounding film that gives one’s life perspective. Some of the movie’s best scene take place within a homeless shelter.
Robert DeNiro delivers one of his better as the very eccentric John Flynn (De Niro) who has a more pessimistic outlook on life. He’s a man who is obsessed with writing. A bigot, racist and slightly out of touch with the world, however, he’s got an enchanting way with words. DeNiro really displays why he is considered one of the best actors of his generation and also shows that he’s still got a lot left in him given the right role. Paul Dano’s character is the bright and vibrant outlook on the film. Dano also puts in one of his best performances to date. He approaches the role of Nick Flynn with an almost childlike approach to most of his experiences within the film.
Being Flynn is a good watch. It’s an emotional journey that really addresses some profound issues that are ever present in modern society. DeNiro is at his best as John Flynn. His rollercoaster performance carries the film. I wouldn’t suggest buying it but you can do a lot worse. Maybe Redbox or Netflix. However, whatever you devote to viewing it then it will be worth it. Its more than entertaining enough to keep you into it.

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, Baltimore Movies Examiner

Da’Mon Guy is a talented writer and artist. He’s a graduate of Coppin State University and has written on a number of publications including The Baltimore Afro, Move, Raise Up, and Westside News. He is a passionate, avid, life long lover of film. His DVD collection houses over 3,000 and he often...

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