The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys
The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys

The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys

2002Movie104 minEnglish

A group of Catholic school friends, after being caught drawing an obscene comic book, plan a heist that will outdo their previous prank and make them local legends.

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IMDb6.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes57%
Metacritic64/100
Google Users73%
Director: Peter CareGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

In a conservative Catholic school in the 1970s, a group of adolescent boys create a comic book detailing their fantastical adventures and their struggles with burgeoning sexuality and repression. Their creation, which includes a space warrior nun and a pirate, becomes a way for them to process their inner turmoil and the rigid environment they inhabit. However, their innocent artistic expression leads to unexpected and serious consequences when their comic is discovered by school authorities.

Critical Reception

The film garnered a mixed to positive reception, with critics often praising its unique visual style, strong performances from its young cast, and its sensitive exploration of adolescence and faith. Some found the narrative a bit uneven, but many appreciated its bold and imaginative approach to coming-of-age themes.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its vibrant and imaginative visual style.
  • Lauded for strong performances by its young ensemble cast.
  • Noted for its sensitive and unique exploration of adolescent angst and faith.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's creative storytelling and the performances of the young actors. Many found the movie to be a thought-provoking and visually engaging take on growing up in a restrictive environment.

Fun Fact

The comic book within the film, "The Serpent's Kiss," was fully illustrated by the film's production designer, Mark S. Freeborn, and his team.

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