Review of Sam's Son

First, Eli Wallach and Anne Jackson are an acting dynamic duo. Second, this film is unique among teen movies in that while it doesn't have the most progressive view of girls, it doesn't objectify them either. It's suggested that Gene does secretly masturbate in the bathroom, but we fortunately don't see more than that. Third, Gene is flawed, but a nice kid who respects his parents. Moreover, you don't see many teen movies told from a Jewish perspective. In one heartbreaking scene it shows the devastating effects of institutional oppression and workplace bullying. The script has some odd moments, but it's poignant and intelligent. Not one of the top movies of the 80's but it's up there for me.