NOWHERE BOY REVIEW

Still from Nowhere Boy

British Visual Artist-turned-Director Sam Taylor-Wood's Nowhere Boy would have made John Lennon proud. The film explores Lennon's rebellious teen years - sexually curious and obsessed with Elvis - prior to becoming the Icon we know him as today, and many will be surprised to learn what an intriguing life he lived prior to finding fame even.

The film is carried by an impeccable cast and although Taylor-Wood took a chance in casting her now-fiancé Aaron Johnson in the prized leading role of John Lennon, the risk paid off as he delivers a mesmerizing performance in this Heartthrob-making role. Johnson captures perfectly the headstrong and self-assured spirit of a young man who by chance develops a love for Music in reconnecting with his estranged and free-spirited Birthmother, Julia (Anne-Marie Duff).  John we see, is raised by his stern Aunt Mimi (Kristin Scott Thomas) and our understanding is that her younger sister Julia abandoned him as a young child.

With no real aspirations to excel in his studies, John unleashes his frustrations through Music, forming a band with some classmates, creating some structure in his life amidst the pushing and pulling in two directions by Mimi and Julia.   Mimi hopes to keep John far away from a desperate Julia with a warning that she only will hurt him. Also in reconnecting with Julia, John's sudden presence in her home causes a divide between her and her husband Bobby (David Morrissey).