Palmer – A Simple Heartwarming and Heartbreaking Tale (Early Review)

Palmer is the perfect example of when the mentality of “less is more” is infused in a story. On its surface, the film is nothing more than a story of an ex-con trying to reestablish his life and then has the responsibility of being a child’s caretaker thrust upon him. However, it’s the small moments placed between the narrative that are most endearing and win the viewer over with its charm. It never draws direct attention to itself but is so subtle that viewers see it, their hearts immediately recognizes it are completely enraptured by each character’s desire to be a better version of themselves despite life getting in their way.

Palmer centers around the titular character, Eddie Palmer (Timberlake), who is returning to his small Louisiana hometown after being imprisoned for 12 years while on a football scholarship. His past actions don’t define him but he can never escape the shadows that they’ve cast for the remainder of his life. While figuring out his next move, he is suddenly placed as the primary caregiver of Sam (Allen), who is left by his drug-addicted mother and her boyfriend who lives on his family’s property. At a young age, Sam is searching for his identity which is not seen as normal by the adults in his world but as Sam and Palmer get to know one another, Palmer seeks to protect the curiosity and innocence that makes Sam so unique.

Timberlake produces a stoic unshakeable male figure that only speaks or emotes if necessary and yet still delivers one of his best performances to date. Sam’s mother, Shelly (Temple), is a flawed character who loves her son but is slow to realize her limitations in providing and protecting him. It’s a heartbreaking notion that is evident from the first moments and strikes an emotional chord throughout the entirety of the film. Allen turns in a wonderful performance, conveying both the hurt and hope of a child who recognizes the turmoil around him but refuses to have that affect his outlook. Additionally, June Squibb and Dean Winters contribute good performances in spite of limited screen time as Palmer’s mother Vivian and Jerry and help to continue Palmer’s journey of improvement forward with what they’re given in the script.

Beyond the a stellar cast and the emotionally strong narrative is Stevens who’s most notable for creating documentaries. What is seen as his first venture into scripted drama, is an excellent representation of his straightforward approach, allowing the story to take center stage while having his cast never stray beyond the confines of their script demands. This is a statement of faith in the material and it’s rewarded by successfully conveying the strong message of hope that is anchored by the emotional connections, both good and bad, with each of its characters. This was perfectly encapsulated by a brief moment of controlled rage from Palmer towards those that sought to break Sam down, but within this moment there were years of pent up frustration, anger, and misunderstanding that were on full display for everyone to see and just as quickly gone. This moment served as proof that Palmer was something special.

In the end, Palmer may not be a flashy film that will seek to destroy box office or streaming records, however, it’s equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking while never straying from its message of ambition. The film delivers a compelling story that is sure to leave viewers longing to spend more time in its world in an effort just to see a little bit more of Timberlake, Temple, and Allen’s characters. It left a lasting imprint and is something that cannot be recommend enough.

still courtesy of Apple

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