Movies-TV

Val Kilmer In A Bold Role!

Finally a Film That Proves Val Kilmer Can Act! Joe The King Is a Well Made Film that Is Strongly Written and has a Great Cast Led By Val Kilmer Who has a Role That Shows He has emotion! This was a Bold Role For Val Not Only Because he had to show a Range Of Emotion But He Also Had To Gain Weight and Show His Big Belly! You have To Give an Actor Credit For That! This is a Great Coming Of Age Story about a 14 Year Old Boy Going on 30 who despite having parents and an older brother is basically left to raise himself and gets in all sorts of trouble! The Film is a Downer at times because the film brings home the point that we are basically products of our surroundings and this kids surroundings are bleak, an alcoholic father, a tramp for a mother and a Future that is unkown! Despite that Cheery senerio, the film is compelling and I would highly recommend it! Keep that Belly Val and More Good Roles Should Come Your Way!

Great screenplay

"Joe the King," written by actor Frank Whaley (Swing Kids, Pulp Fiction) debuted him this time as director in this independant film that takes place in upstate New York(actually filmed on Staten Island).

This movie, told about a young boy's struggle for survival in a world that has the odds stacked against him, is a powerful and moving movie. The young actor playing Joe, Noah Fleiss (Josh and S.A.M.) proved to be a very wonderful actor. Other actors included are Val Kilmer, Ethan Hawke, John Leguizamo, Camryn Manheim, Karen Young, and countless others.

Despite the not so good reviews and ratings given by film critics, I believe that this movie is a very unique, interesting, and nicely put together movie.

The DVD version is very interesting because of a special feature included in it, which is a commentary made on the film that is narrated by Frank Whaley, his brother Robert Whaley, and snipits by actor and friend of Whaley's, Ethan Hawke. The whole movie is replayed in this feature, but this time with their voices in the background, offering each person's individual opinion about each and every single scene, as well as behind-the-scenes information. Frank Whaley's witty humour provides for laughs throughout the commentary.

All in all, this was a wonderful movie...that just happened to be filmed in my school!

Great Movie and DVD

This movie is a great independent feature. The cast is outstanding, including the young star. The movie follows a young boy through an abusive father and tough neighboorhood. The DVD contains a insightfull commentary on getting the movie made and also good independent tips. It also analyzes what I consider the best scene in the movie.

The most under-rated movie!

I really thought this movie was good. It told a interesting, and emotional story.... I'm suprise this did not make the top 10 or at least the top 25! ahhhhhh!

Frank Whaley attempts therapy on screen

by Dane Youssef


Frank Whaley's "Joe The King" has been called by the filmmaker himself "semi-autobiographical." And such a story about so much pain and misery just makes to almost want to see it just to see how thie guy got where he is today.


It so damn downbeat, you have to ask yourself, "How does all this turn out? This poor little guy... Is there a happy ending?"


Like a lot of actor-helmed vehicles, this one is loaded with big name walk-ons. They work, but at the same time, they disapoint. None of the supporting/bit characters are on the screen enough to make enough of an impact.

"Joe The King" is chock-full of trite and truths to life--the lead that seems to be born into the hard-luck life, the abusive, alcoholic loser father, the weak-willed, weak-spirited, whimpering mother who doesn't care if her husband pounds on her kids as long as he doesn't pound on her, the guidance counselor who's all thumbs--aren't they all? Not just a cliche' in movies, but what guidance counselor has ever been worth in damn in life? Was yours?


There is a moment where it is "Careers Day" in an elementry class where it is revealed that Joe's dad is the janitor. He is ridiculed an lashes out (very mildly) at an obnoxious litle teacher's pet and the Dickensian teacher drags Joe and spanks him in front of the entire class. The knife is further pushed and twisted when she makes the whole thing personal by muttering angrily so he can hear, "Just like your father..."

Whaley is clearly dealing with old wounds and knows how to use them so they feel fresh and make you cringe (or worse, relate).


The movie is full of downbeat moments and times where life shows it's ugly face. It seems as if God is very skillfully finding ways to torture Joe... and then skewering it further in smaller ways. In a moment of desperation, Joe attempts to do what his parents can't seem to... save the day.


Joe is not only starving, he descends into petty theft. Then takes it even further. He attempts to dodge his father's outbursts and reach out to his brother, who is trying to eke his way into the "in-crowd" and doesn't want Joe's jinx streak to rub off on him, even to the point of at one point getting out of bed and going to go sleep the closet to get away from his brother's sad vibes.


But "Joe The King" is not just one long crying jag. There is humor, sweetness and tenderness. People may differ about the nature of the ending, but in the strangest, saddest way, it offers some hope.


The children swear in the tradition of "Stand By Me," the child-abuse or disregard in the tradition of "Radio Flyer" and the atmosphere is reminsent of many other films about working-class life. Unlike "That '70's Show" or "Detroit Rock City" or "Dick," this movie doesn't feel like it belongs solely in the era.


It takes place in the 1970's to be sure, but a story like this feels timeless.

Lead actor/title character Noah Fleiss gives on the the best performances he's probably ever given, although how many movies has he really made? And how many of them really have allowed him to shine? This is definately the one.


Val Kilmer gives a just plain awesome turn as Bob, Joe's stinking, deadbeat drunk of a dad who's one of the biggest problems in Joe's life. He owes money to more than half the town. He dodges his creditors like bullets, drinks himself into a pathetic stupor and lashes out monstrously at his family.


Kilmer, known for playing dazzling roles and pretty-boy parts, puts on a great deal of weight and shows nastier edges that he has since "The Doors."


Since writer/director Whaley and Kilmer first worked together in that film, Whaley obviously saw how powerfully Kilmer could play a violent sadist, always under the influence of drugs. Kilmer has had trouble getting working because he's so damn dificult to work with, so the two were clearly doing each other favors. Another pal of Whaley's, Ethan Hawke plays a friendly, but utterly useless guidance counselor who hopes to get Joe out of his slump at school. And because it's Joe, he makes things a lot worse.


Karen Young is adequate in a brief supporting part as Joe's mother. And hispanic wunderkind John Leguizamo, a natural comedic talent, takes a more dramatic turn here as a flamboyant busboy in an extended cameo at the local rathole diner where Joe is working illegally. When the s--t hits the fan and Joe is at the center of it, it doesn't really come as a surprise that he's the only one who knew all along.


Whaley seems to capture the flavor for this kind of working class life and he seems to bring out the best in child actors, as well as his more distinguished adult friends and peers. He also sends us back to the era without hitting us hard with period music on the soundtrack from the day.

I myself was kind of surprised that this screenplay won the Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award (along with Audrey Well's "Guinevere"). The Open Palm nomination for the film itself, that, I can see. The dialouge is altogether realistic, without being nessicarily sharp or too memorable. And the characters are believable without being too fresh.


Writer/director Whaley does an effective job of capturing the atmosphere of this Upstate New York working-class life and bring out the best in child actors and his big-name celebrity walk-throughs.


Whaley has said that much of the story is inspired by the childhood of himself and his older brother, Robert Whaley, who is featured on the soundtrack and has a bit part.


Good ol' Frank himself also has a directors cameo walk-on as one of many who the deadbeat Bob owes money to. He makes a personal house call, and he seems madder than the others Bob owes money to. He acts as a professional collector--the leg-breaking kind. He seems ready to kill Bob and after it's over, the sins of the father are, once again, visited on the son.


So this is the Whaley E! True Hollywood story. More or less.


There is a painful sadness that runs all throughout "Joe The King," and when you look at Frank Whaley, the roles he's taking on and heard him just talk as himself, you kind of see there's something here that Whaley has in him which he brings to his roles.


Whaley deserves extra kudos for getting as far as he did after being dealt such a bad hand. A backhand, even. What of Joe? What of his friends, family, enemies, acquaintences? If you drink in this one, you can't help but wonder...


"Joe The King" doesn't break any new ground whatsoever. But this is a slice-of-life film, and while technology, trends, art, ideas and ideals are constantly changing, some things remain trite and true no matter what era or part of the universe you're living in. Whaley chooses some appropriate music for his movie and some nice visuals.


"Joe The King" is kind of an acquired taste, like many coming-of-age stories. It's more of a confessional than anything else. If you've lived a life somewhat like this, or in this part of the world or in this enviorment remotely, you'll understand...


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BEAUTIFUL film!

I LOVE this film to pieces!! I've watched it over and over and am so grateful that there is a commentary track. It's one of my favorite films in the world- haunting, strong, sincere performances by each of the children and adults in this movie. It really stayed with me the first time I saw it a few years ago- each time I see it I keep discovering all of these wonderful, subtle little things that Karen Young (my GOD!), Noah Fleiss, Max Ligosh, Val Kilmer, and everyone else does that I've missed- brilliant, overwhelmingly beautiful score thoughtfully placed through out. Lovely cinematography and lighting- just a pleasure to watch on all levels, really. And thank GOD for the writing- it's so realistic and not at all showy or false like 99.9% of film writing IS- that it goes entirely unnoticed and underappreciated until you actually take the time to remember that it all has actually been WRITTEN several viewings later. So much of why I like this film I don't know that there are even words for.

Brilliant

This is one of those little movies that probably had a limited release and was probably seen mostly by people who frequent film festivals. It is a real find because if you watch it, your immediate conclusion will be: an excellent piece of cinema. The film's message is your a product of your environment and background. Joe is not a great kid but your sympathy will lie with him by the end of this film. The question you will ask is does this boy have a chance in life with the deck of cards he has been dealt with. My question is why is Frank Whalley not making any more films? Val Kilmer has never been better but most people probably don't even know he made this little gem. I thought it was competently and fluidly directed, written and acted. Its a low budget roots are evident but that actually adds to its appeal because its a film about real people in realistc situations. It is the type of film that is made in Europe. This film has a lot of merit and needs to be seen and appreciated.

Joe the King - Fantastic

I work with kids who come from similiar backgrounds. This film is right on. The actors gave award winning performances, the story is heart wrenching and very believable. If you are a Val Kilmer fan, you'll love his supporting role!

King of the Hill

This interesting independent movie directed by Frank Whalley is a worthwile and engaging coming of age story about Joe, a teenage boy (played by the unknown and excellent Noah Fleiss), who doesn`t seem to find his place in school, neighborhood and family. It doesn`t help that he has an abusive drunk father and a mother too busy to care, who let him constantly on his own and forcing him to make some (bad) choices.
This could have turned into a predictable, by-the-numbers tearjerker but thankfully the director tries to develop a deep and dry story, realistic and honest enough. The last scenes with Joe and his father are actually quite well-done, never becoming too sappy although they make for some moving and powerful moments.
Not a stellar picture, but it`s done with care and talent in all levels, turning it into an above average effort and a good directing debut for Whalley. There`s even some acting contributions by indie-stars like Ethan Hawke, John Leguizamo or Val Kilmer in supporting roles. Recommended.

tragic

I have seen this movie more than once,and always has left me feeling really sad.I think it was very well done. Gritty and tense, down to the home haircuts. Joe is a hero,in a losing battle for survival.I could not help but think of all the children, who are in this same situation now. Suffering in silence. Joe the King is an excellent movie about alcohol abuse,
and the devastation it leaves in its wake.I do'nt recommend this movie for children.

joe the man

this movie was wonderful, NOAH FLEISS ,whom i never heard of before, was perfectly cast in this film about a boy who has nothing but himself. well thats not entirely accurate, he lives with his mom,dad and older brother, but no-one realy knows he is there. the family has nothing, Joe's father (val kilmer) is an abusive drunk who used to be the school janitor, and Joe was embarased by his job, his mom is to busy to even care about Joe, and his older brother just doesnt want him hanging around him. so what is a guy to do, in this case Joe desides that stealing is his answer, he is not a bad kid, he just does bad things and has no role model to keep him straight.
this was actor Frank Whalley's directorial debut, which he also wrote. supposed to be semi auto-biographical.
i was so impressed with this movie that i went out and bought it. and i want to find out all i can about Noah Fleiss (a definite star of the future) who plays the part perfectly.
the critics didn't like the movie too well, but it did win awards at the sundance film festival, so it cant be that bad.
near the end of the film, something happens that makes you stop and pay attention, and look at your own life, because sometimes you only get one chance.

Awesome movie with breakthrough performance!

Remember this name: Noah Fleiss. This young kid gives such a mesmerizing, true-to-life performance you almost forget you're watching a movie and become totally engrossed in the life of this kid, who is at the center of this movie. This kid lives the most dismal, sad life and does not complain once to anyone. He just tries to live day by day and get through his meager existence by claiming little "victories" where he can. You just can't help but really feel for this kid down to the core of your being. A must see! Good performances from the supporting cast round out the movie as well.

A film that will stay with you...

Joe the King was a film I rented out of curiosity. I have always admired Val Kilmer's less mainstream film performances. " HBO's "The Man Who Broke 1000 Chains" stands out in my mind. This film took me by surprise as much as it stunned me on a personal and intellectual level. I found that the character development was full. It was a realistic portrayal of one the most common and often covered up either seperate or combined social issues, Abuse, and Alcoholism. Plus, everything that can snowball when these subjects become a reality in a families life.
I felt that though perhaps not a critical success on many accounts. The actors deserved acknowledgment for their near perfect portrayals. The screenplay was excellent and it was a film that touched on topics that are often misunderstood.
For those reasons alone, I cannot recommend this movie enough. It is excellent! I own many movies but, I could not add this one to my collection quick enough.

great movie

Though some film critics give "Joe the King" only a star, I think it still deserves 5 stars. I can say that all of the characters played their part well especially Noah Fleiss. Great story, acting and cast make this movie worth watching for!!! I think Noah Fleiss deserves an award too!

Depressing movie

"Joe the King" is a depressing story about a boy who grows up in a poor family. Joe goes to a local school where most of his classmates make fun of him because his dad is the school janitor. Joe stands up for himself, his brother, his mother, and even his dad even though they all treat him 'average'. In the end, Joe turns to crime to help his family.

"Joe the King" is not a movie for everyone. Some viewers may find the movie depressing, disturbing and even offensive. There is a substantial amount of profanity in the movie. If you insist on viewing it, be sure to rent it first.

Reclaiming Youth

This video presents the viewer with the life of too many kids in America today. Joe has many barriers and he copes as well as he can as a child. Although the adults in his life fail to support and nourish his spirit, Joe's sterling charcter and creativity are clear throughout the story. As a vice president of Reclaiming Youth International, I can say that Joe is one my favorite kids since he is so creative and energetic as a kid.

Superbly Done

This is a sad, sad, story. It is about a boy, who at 14, his life is already shown to go nowhere. The irony in the movie is that no one can save him, no matter how much they try. It seems his fate is all ready decided. The boy makes a few bad decisions and it seems to show that he'll stay on that same path forever. Whaley does a wonderful job with this movie. It's not a story about the kid(Joe) but a story of many real-life children in the same situation. We see the story through the eyes of Joe(played very well by Noah Fleiss)as he navigatesthrough every day life. The boy has no role model, and his family is the one to blame. His constantly drunk and abusive father(Val Kilmer in perhaps his most touching role ever)offers no support. Neither does his mother, who seems to be in a never-ending state of shock. And then there's his older brother, who constantly ditches him. We have sympathy for Joe because he's not a bad kid, he's just doing bad things.Others try to influence him such as a school counseler(Ethan Hawke), and fellow worker (John Leguizamo), but to no avail. Joe seems to be beyond help. Joe is eventually caught after stealing some money. The sad part is he stole the money to pay off one of his father's loans, and buy his mother new records. (The previous records were brokenbecause of his fathers rage.) The final scene between boy and father is one of the most moving I've seen in awhile.

Haunting and Beautiful

This has got to be one of the great underrated indie movies of 1999, but then Whaley has always been one of the great underrated actors, one of those actors who disappears so completely in a role he doesn't get the same name recognition as the showboats.

The spare, powerful screenplay is shot with a powerful visual sense -- note the schoolyard and classroom scenes are exactly child eye-level, as opposed to most childhood memory scenes, shot downward from an adult eye-level. Even the light and texture evoke childhood. The details speak volumes. Little moments -- the tampon, the girl at the roller rink -- resonate, and the big moments are controlled and done without self-pity or melodrama. The performances director Whaley got from the actors are fantastic. Stars disappear into their roles. The children... the boys who plays Joe, his brother, and the friend (Ray?) show not a sign of self-consciousness. Their dialogue rings so true. This is a surprising and wonderful movie that came out in a year when everyone was asking "what's going on with boys?" This movie says a lot about boys without the heavy-handed style of Hollywood. Odd that none of the reviewers have picked up on that. Unbelievable that this movie was shot in under a month. Director is one to watch.

Brilliant directorial debut

Whaley's mesmerizing directorial debut (which he also wrote) is one of the best independent films of the last 10 years, but unfortunately far too underseen. Trimark distributed it poorly, barely giving it a chance to find an audience, while lesser indie fare found viewers, or at least a chance to find such viewers (look at 'Guinevere' - an inferior film that shared the screenwriting prize with 'Joe the King' at Sundance... 'Guinevere' got picked up by Miramax, got a number of weeks in theatres... a real chance to find moviegoers... and yet the far superior 'Joe the King' disappeared in the blink of an eye).

'Joe the King' is an essential film from one of America's most exciting new directorial voices. Whaley is one of my favorite actors, and with the performances he draws from his fantastic cast (most especially Noah Fleiss and a career-best Val Kilmer), it's clear the man knows his trade.

After the distribution hatchet job Trimark gave this film, I hope people discover it on home video.

A Dark Tale with a Bright Heart

A stunning, underrated film about the fragility of boys as represented by Joe Henry. Whaley shows amazing control and subtlety. Even the smallest details resound. Though things seems hopeless for the protagonist, the fact that the movie is based on the director's own life and he transcended those circumstances give it a kind of brightness and optimism despite the surface bleakness of the material. Wonderful performances, beautifully-shot, sparingly but powerfully written.