Palmer is a Fisher Stevens directed drama film distributed by Apple TV +. This USD, 6.7 million budget film, stars Justin Timberlake, Ryder Allen, Alisha Wainwright, June Squibb, and Juno Temple. A former convict who tries to return to his hometown and make peace with himself is not a new theme for his genre. Palmer tries to bring it up with additional sensitive topics.
Palmer (Timberlake) has completed 12 years in prison due to his past mistakes. Returning to his hometown, he was faced with the townspeople who now find it difficult to accept him. Even though she ended up finding a job as a cleaner at school. At the same time, he lives with his grandmother and Sam (Allen), the little boy next door who is often neglected by his mother. Sam has a strange habit of liking things that girls like, such as playing with dolls, putting on makeup, dancing Cheerleader, to dressing up as girls. Palmer and Sam are finally forced into a situation to have a strange relationship, like a father and son.
Indeed, the story between “father and son” is commonly seen in films, from big stars like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willis, Jason Statham, to The Rock. The figure played by Timberlake is not far from this type. Two highly contrasting figures collide in an unusual situation, the result is, of course, the unique chemistry between the two.
The plot direction, which is not difficult to anticipate, is inevitable. It’s just that the LGBTQ issue in it, especially the boy’s behaviour, is something fresh here. The intolerance nuance is strong in the plot, and Palmer is the perfect character to balance it. This is supported by the strong performances of Timberlake (Palmer) and Allen (Sam). Timberlake, who has matured in acting, can play straightforwardly as a calm Palmer even though his heart continues to flare up. It is Ryder Allen who plays superior as a boy who has unusual habits. The figure of Sam, who is smart and innocent, can be portrayed flexibly by this little star. The chemistry of these two characters is what can captivate and touch us throughout the film.
Through the chemistry and performances of his two main casters, Justin Timberlake and especially the little boy, Ryder Allen, Palmer presented something out of the ordinary from the familiar plot for his genre. This film also depicts domestic violence, the impact of which is mental for the child. Does this film want to portray this background or carry the theme of freedom? Even though the human side has an absolute answer.
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