As the first scene of the "Coconut Hero" began, my immediate thought was, "maybe this film isn't for me." As I watched a teenage kid attempt to take his own life and the crowd respond with laughter, I shuddered and wondered if I was ready. See, I have long held the belief that there is nothing so bad in this world that it cannot be laughed at, given the right context. Time and distance usually allow the wounds to heal and we are permitted to find humor again, even in painful memories. As the rest of the movie rolled on, I was proud of myself for sticking it out. Soon, our teenager found purpose again, reconnected with those important to him, and even fell in love. When the credits rolled, I was left with two thoughts; this film did a better job of capturing the teenage experience than most others and I think my wounds are beginning to heal, yet I hope the scars always remain.
Be good to each other,
-Nathan