The Dirties

Matthew Johnson's film is not so much a thriller as it is an uncomfortable tragedy. Employing the device of two smart and creative budding high school filmmakers attempting to film a comedy for their film class. These two friends do not fit in with the "cool kids" and are constantly being bullied. When their teacher wisely advices that the rough cut of their film is too profane and inappropriate for a high school film class, it seems to serve as a sort of tipping point for one of the two boys. Hiding behind his warped sense of humor, the more grounded friend does not pick up on the signals that his pal is slipping into sociopathic tendencies. To Johnson's credit, he never fully commits the movie to one genre. He fills the film with multiple (and clever references to iconic films) -- but most disturbing are the slight references to Gus Van Sant's dark cinematic poem of a Columbine-like tragedy and open references to Columbine itself. Matthew Johnson plays the unhinged and angry character feels more than a little real. Owen Williams is even more so as the quieter and somewhat innocent friend. Both are grown men in their mid-twenties, but look to be about 16 to 17 years old. The rest of the cast is similarly effective. This film leaves an impression. It is disturbing, sad, uncomfortable and hard to forget. Whether or not it can be called "entertaining" might be another sort of discussion. What is all-too clear is that this is closer to reality than one wants to admit. So many of the characters should have noticed the warning signs of a young person in need of help. At the same time, it is not without the realm of reason that it can be imagined how they would fail to notice. This film is a reminder that we all need to step back and “re-think” the way we look, listen and refuse to simply stand by when a child is being bullied.

Dirties is a complete movie. It is filled with comedy, a bit of romance but has a lot of really dark, shocking, and thrilling drama that makes me think. As an aspiring filmmaker I can say the best thing to say about art is that it wants you to make art. This is a great movie and I recommend it to everyone.

One of the most engrossing and ultimately satisfying films from the last few years, couldn't get enough of it. Matt Johnson and Owen Williams are incredible, do yourself a favor and see this movie, you won't regret it!

Since the entire film was improvised, it is amazing it turned out the way it did. The ending was terrifying and made me afraid a little of what was gonna happen. As a screenwriter, it reassured my reasoning for going into film. To give a new perspective on the world around me and to share my observations of the human condition. This film succeeds in doing that

This movie offers an original perspective on the real life societal problem of school bullying and associated gun violence (why it's 2 stars and not 1 star). Yet the movie lacks substance and provides a weak and dreary dialog as it provides isolated moments of interest in support of the plot. In addition, a lack of character development prevented the audience in developing a connection to any of the characters. At fifty-three minutes into the movie the boredom became obvious as I began to hit the Apple TV remote in order to determine time remaining - a true litmus test for any movie's quality. With only thirty minutes remaining I pushed forward in the hopes of receiving a dramatic climax to this tiresome event - only to discover a unique yet very disappointing ending. Do NOT recommend due to boring execution of the plot, lack of character development and disappointing ending.

sheesh, just plain blahhhhhh

We cannot ignore the problem of your culture. This movie is meant to make you think, and discuss the issues with other people. I want to be clear, this is a hard movie to watch. But, like all true art, it is needed in our culture. This movie is sensationalizing, isnt arrogant, isnt going to far. What this movie does is humanize some marginalized kids, and helps to show that they are real people. Poeple who need help. And you cant just put your head in the sand and ignore it anymroe.