Joe Bell

POSITIVES…

  • As an earnest drama that's based on a true story, about the dangers of bullying, this is a truly admirable film. 

  • This is a heartbreaking tragic story that is absolutely worth being aware of. 

  • Narrative handles the big plot-reveals well, by nicely taking advantage of the three act structure. 

  • Effective emotional scenes and tear jerker moments. 

  • I know he wouldn’t be the first choice for many, but I thought Mark Wahlberg actually did a spectacular job in the role of Joe Bell. He captured the essence of his character well. 

  • Reid Miller as Jadin Bell. Makes every scene he is in greater because of his amazing stand-out performance. 

  • One of the best things about this movie are the interactions between Joe Bell and Jadin. 

  • Story. Very strong supporting cast by Connie Britton, Maxwell Jenkins, and Gary Sinese. Each one of them added so much to the movie, and had some incredible scenes. 

  • How can you not appreciate the thematic messages of this story? Important and relevant to all. 

  • Has some solid visuals of the locations that Joe is walking through. 

  • Asparagus straight from the ground. Green gold!

NEGATIVES…

  • Some will balk at the casting choice, and may not be able to see past the fact that Mark Wahlberg is playing Joe Bell. 

  • You’ve seen this drama multiple times before. I don’t think there’s going to be many surprises in the story. 

  • For those unfamiliar with the true story, the trailer unfortunately blatantly spoils that big plot-reveal in the movie. 

  • If you are familiar with the true story and / or have seen the trailer, the wait to get to that big plot-reveal may feel like it’s taking too long to get to that obvious point. 

  • Main thematic message can feel like it’s repeatedly just hitting you over the head with it without much subtlety at all. 

  • I know it’s based on a true story and all, but there are some plot points that seemed a little too convenient.

  • Did not like how the movie ended.

loveditenjoyedit LIKED IT itsokayitsmehitsterrible

Joe Bell - watched it IN THEATERS