Rotten
True second-chance story doesn't come to life onscreen.
John DeFore, Hollywood Reporter
Jamesy Boy
Stay up. Never down.
2014 · 1h 49m · Not Rated
Crime, Drama, Romance
Directed by
Trevor White
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Jamesy Boy
Overview
Based on the true story of teenager James Burns who goes from a suburban street gang to a maximum-security prison cell surrounded by hardened criminals. He turns his life around in prison thanks to the unexpected friendship he forms with a convicted murderer who becomes his mentor.
Director and cast
Critics on Rotten Tomatoes
Top critics, in their words
26%
Tomatometer
Rotten
A film with a message of inspiration, to be sure, but not much in terms of innovation.
Christy Lemire, RogerEbert.com
Fresh
For such a seriously street film, Jamesy Boy has some surprisingly sappy moments. But the redemptive ending, while thin, is genuinely gratifying.
David Hiltbrand, Philadelphia Inquirer
Rotten
The screenplay by Lane Shadgett and director Trevor White relies far too much on telling rather than showing.
Martin Tsai, Los Angeles Times
Rotten
White's decision to shackle his film to a redemptive arc ends up making Burns's story an argument for juvenile imprisonment.
Inkoo Kang, Village Voice
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