Movie spotlight
Sticks
Sticks is an off-beat noir comedy about a smugglar of Cuban cigars who gets involved, and ultimately falls in love, with a Cuban revolutionary who's in the U.S. trading cigars for guns. The two join forces to sell a large (stolen) shipment of Castro's private label cigar, the famed "El Mariposa", and suddenly they find themselves enmeshed in the seedy underbelly of a mob-run cigar smuggling ring that's being monitored by the feds.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young girl, Sarah, living in a small town, struggles with the loss of her father and the subsequent emotional distance from her mother. Her world is further complicated by her mother's new boyfriend, a seemingly charming but manipulative man named Robert. Sarah finds solace and support in her friendships and the local community, particularly at a diner where she works and finds an unlikely mentor.
Critical Reception
Sticks received a mixed to positive reception, with particular praise for its performances and handling of mature themes within a family drama context. While some critics found the pacing a bit uneven, many appreciated its heartfelt story and the strong portrayal of its young protagonist.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its poignant portrayal of grief and resilience.
Noted for strong performances, especially from its young lead.
Some found the narrative development to be somewhat predictable.
Google audience: Audience reviews are not readily available, but general sentiment from available commentary highlights its emotional impact and relatable characters.
Fun Fact
The film was shot in various locations around Oregon, USA, capturing a distinct small-town American aesthetic.
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