Jack of the Red Hearts

Jack of the Red Hearts depicts a bond between a troubled teenager and a young autistic girl ... The goodwill for its titular character never feels earned.

There's a poignant, powerful story lurking at the edges of "Jack of the Red Hearts" but, as is, the film proves a strained, implausible family drama.

"Jack of the Red Hearts" is the movie equivalent of what used to be called a "problem play." As such, it is well done.

From the opening scene [Robb] takes over the screen with a coltish toughness and mercurial charisma.

It's rare that a drama shows such specificity with respect to the experience of coping with autism, and that sensitivity goes a long way.

Unfettered truth that shines with authenticity and sensitivity, Jack of the Red Hearts is glorious.

The film focuses less on the topic of autism and more on the story of Jack's redemption, which can be very inspiring when it tries to be, but lacks a certain spark behind the core message it hopes to send across.

Youth in social and economic crisis today converges with autism, and struggling to come of age in this troubled world. Based on the challenges of the director raising her own autistic child, and raw and real mixed with plenty of tough love empathy too.

Good acting in thought-provoking but predictable drama.

Showcases the talented young actress Taylor Richardson but never develops beyond placid afterschool-special territory.