The Sundance Film Festival selection “The Inevitable Defeat of Mister and Pete” opened in theatres nationwide – including two in St. Louis – on October 11. What little buzz there has been about the indie film’s debut included initial comparisons to “Precious.”
Both films tell the story of adolescents forced to make their own way in the world thanks to tragically flawed mothers who are completely detached from their households in the roughest of inner-city New York neighborhoods. But that’s where the similarities end.
While Precious all but succumbs to her circumstances, Mister’s resilience and unyielding determination to be the master of his fate manages to illuminate a glimmer of hope from the gutters of his Brooklyn housing project.
Michael Starrbury’s screenplay is formulaic and somewhat predictable as eighth grader Mister unwillingly totes and fends for a younger neighborhood boy while navigating a summer that’s anything but a vacation.
“Mister and Pete” could have easily gone down the path of yet another stereotypical cautionary tale from the hood. But director George Tilman Jr. makes the most of the charm and talent of Skylan Brooks in the role of Mister and the authenticity of the supporting cast.
With a heroin addict prostitute for a mother, Mister had no choice but to grow up. He’s a pint-sized adult, more angered and irritated by his mother’s life choices than hurt or confused. Convinced he’s found his avenue out of the projects, his plan is to bide time until he cashes in on his opportunity.
But things never come easy for Mister – and this summer is no different. He faces never-ending, insurmountable odds in his quest to survive his present and thrive in the near future.
More familiar names in the “Mister and Pete” cast include Jennifer Hudson, Anthony Mackie, Jordin Sparks and Jeffrey L. Wright. They eloquently lend themselves to uplifting the performances by the young actors playing the two title characters.
Hudson is barely recognizable as Mister’s mother Gloria. Torn down by ‘hood life and addiction, she shows a sincere sense of shame about the world she’s forced her son to navigate, even if he’s clearly not her priority.
Jordin Sparks also shines as Angie, a former girl from the neighborhood who can’t help but look out for Mister.
At 14, Brooks carries the weight of the film like an established pro. He is downright masterful on screen. And 11-year-old Ethan Dizon is the perfect sidekick as Pete. It’s impossible not to be inspired by the tenacity, courage and strength they bring to their roles.
The Inevitable Defeat of Mister and Pete is now open in theatres nationwide. The film is rated R with a running time of 119 minutes.
