Palmer (2021)

Apple TV+’s latest feature filmPalmer,directed byFisher Stevensand written byCheryl Guerriero, a native of my hometown, takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster set in a small town in Louisiana.

When ex-convict Eddie Palmer (Justin Timberlake) is released early from his prison sentence, he returns home to live with his beloved grandmother Vivian (June Squibb). While on the path to rebuilding himself, he meets Sam (Ryder Allen), an adorable boy from a dysfunctional home. After a tragic turn of events, Palmer soon becomes the primary caregiver to Sam, and the two develop a genuine father-son bond. Though they face several obstacles from both the public and Sam’s drug-addicted mother, Shelly (Juno Temple), nothing can tear them apart.

In the beginning, Palmer is cold and distant towards Sam; he wants nothing to do with him. The last thing he wants to do is be around an eccentric little boy. As the movie progresses, Sam coaxes Palmer out of his detached nature. Palmer cares for the boy and his well-being, and the two connect through similar experiences — both have absent mothers and are considered outsiders in their hometown.

Palmeris Ryder Allen’s introduction to Hollywood, and all I have to say is that he stole the show. His performance was beautiful, heartbreaking, brilliant, and so much more. While I watched the film, I wanted to climb through the screen and give Sam all the love and comfort he deserves.

When you meet Sam, you will immediately fall in love with him. His carefree and precocious lifestyle is fascinating to watch. Through his character, gender stereotypes are broken down. Sam loves to play with dolls, dress up as a princess, and have tea parties with his friend Emily (Molly Sue Harrison). Sam’s behavior is pointed out numerous times throughout the movie; however, he is passionate about his interests and would never change who he is to follow societal standards.