Added to Prime Video on Wednesday, Dec 20, 2023 “Half Nelson” explores the life of Dan Dunne, a middle school history teacher in Brooklyn, struggling with drug addiction. Unexpectedly, he forms a unique bond with one of his students, Drey, after she discovers his secret. The film navigates the complexities of their relationship, highlighting themes of friendship, trust, and the challenges of overcoming personal demons. It delicately portrays the realities of inner-city life and the impact of social and personal issues on individuals and their communities.
Length: 1h 46m
Genre: Drama
This Title is: Thought-Provoking, Realistic
“Half Nelson” IS STREAMING TODAY ON Prime Video IN CANADA!
Trailer
Cast
- Ryan Gosling as Dan Dunne
- Shareeka Epps as Drey
- Anthony Mackie as Frank
Parental Guidance
Maturity Rating: R for drug content throughout, language, and some sexuality
Content warnings include drug use, mature themes, and some sexual content.
Trivia
- Ryan Gosling received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role in this film.
- The film was shot in just 23 days.
- “Half Nelson” is based on the short film “Gowanus, Brooklyn,” which also starred Shareeka Epps in the role of Drey.
Our Review
“Half Nelson” stands out for its raw and honest portrayal of complex characters and challenging themes. Ryan Gosling’s exceptional performance as Dan Dunne brings depth and nuance to the character, making his struggles both relatable and heart-wrenching. Shareeka Epps, as Drey, delivers a mature and compelling performance, creating a strong on-screen chemistry with Gosling. The film’s direction is subtle yet powerful, successfully capturing the essence of the characters’ lives and the environment they inhabit. Overall, “Half Nelson” is a gripping and emotionally resonant film that leaves a lasting impact.
Critic Scores
Critic Scores aggregate ratings from IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and Metacritic. (Click on any score for a detailed review.)
