High school students are under more pressure than ever. Twenty years ago, there was plenty of pressure for teenagers on deciding whether or not they want to attend college. Today, NOT going to college doesn’t seem like a valid option for graduating seniors. In the past, you could realistically start thinking about college choices in your junior year of high school. Now kids are preparing for college as early as junior high. This has also created more tension between kids and their parents, who are living through their kids and reliving their youth.
The big question is not whether they decide to go to college or not, but where they are going. That question now is being explored in the DVD release, Acceptance.
About a high school overachiever named Taylor Rockefeller (Mae Whitman), the film revolves around the high-strung teenager during her senior year. Taylor’s parents are really close to getting a divorce, which adds another layer of stress to weigh her down. To make matters worse, her mother (Joan Cusack) is pushing her to go to the best college where she can get a great education and find a potential future husband.
Taylor just wants to go to a school she likes. Maya (Deepti Daryanani), is Taylor’s Indian friend, who’s family won’t accept anything less than her admittance to an Ivy League college. But when Maya wants to become a poet and a swimmer instead of an doctor like her mother, sister, and father that are very close to disowning her. Finally, Harry (Jonathan Keltz), Taylor’s ex-boyfriend, who recently changed his name to “AP Harry.” He decided that if he took every Advanced Placement test ever offered, it would break a world record and Harvard would have no choice but to admit him.
This film accurately brings to life the real tension and pressure that is put on today’s youth. Picking a college is an important decision, but at times they go over-the-top with certain storylines for the comedic effect. But overall this film presents a fresh perspective on high school life. There is not a whole lot of time for high school romance or drama, not relating to picking a college, which is a good thing. That direction makes Acceptance unique.
The film may be low profile, but it does feature the acting talents of Joan Cusack who, unfortunate as it is, is more recognized for being John Cusack’s sister. The star of Acceptance is semi-known actress Mae Whitman. You might recognize her from the outstanding NBC television series, Parenthood.
While it may look like just another high-school drama film, it really is unlike anything you have ever watched before. A film about kids deciding on what college to go to may not sound that interesting, but it’s anything but. This real drama that high-school students can relate to. Acceptance won’t be on anyone’s Oscar List, but it’s entertaining to watch for a hour and a half.
The video is given in widescreen color with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1. It is enchanced for 16X9 TVs. Transfer is good with minimal distortion. There is some noticeable grain, but nothing that distracts from the overall product. No major problems at all.
The audio included is available in English Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround sound. There are subtitles available in English as well. The dialogue comes out crisp and clear. No major problems here either.
None.
Acceptance is worth a rental, but it’s not go-out-of-your-way-to-watch quality or anything. It is good film that will surprise many, due to its low publicity.
Vivendi Home Entertainment presents Acceptance. Directed by Sanna Hamri. Written by Suzette Couture and Susan Coll. Starring Mae Whitman, Joan Cusack, Deepti Daryanani, and Jonathan Keltz. Running time: 88 minutes. NOT RATED. Released on DVD: July 13, 2010.
