Ordinary Sinner

Rating:
Summary: Worth A Look
Review: "Ordinary Sinner" is an interesting low budget film which deals with spirutual faith, sexuality, and homophobia in a small town. The cover suggest a bisexual romantic triangle but this is not a just a sexy romp-the film explores complex issues as the role of gays in the church.

Rating:
Summary: a smart and moving coming of age film
Review: Finally, a coming of age film that doesn't patronize (or insult) its audience. There's good humor, sex and serious drama plus some fine performances including A Martinez as a sage gay priest. Davis' gentle direction was an additional unexpected surprise.

Rating:
Summary: Many Reasons to Pay Attention to this little Film
Review: ORDINARY SINNER is a fine example of what small budget films can accomplish where box office extravaganzas fail. The story is a simple one - college youths in search of defining their roles in the universe on varying levels of sophistication are brought together in a small Vermont college town. The main character has given up on his seminary plan to become an Episcopal priest, engages in his first sexual encounter with a girl who becomes part of the trio of friends that drive this story. When homophobic signs appear in the gossip and visuals of this quiet community, the one who has the courage to quell this dangerous atmosphere is the local parish Episcopal priest ( a beautifully sensitve portrayal by A Martinez) by announcing from his podium that if as the rednecks suggest the bible states to kill homosexuals, then the town should start with him. His tender outing eventually results in his death which is surrounded in mystery. It is the resloving of the mystery that brings understanding and love to the youths and the townspeople. Filmed with flashbacks that only make sense as the film draws to a close enhances the chance taking that is present in this well directed and acted story. Worth watching for the 'food for thought' as well as for the technique of storytelling it demonstrates.

Rating:
Summary: Many Reasons to Pay Attention to this little Film
Review: ORDINARY SINNER is a fine example of what small budget films can accomplish where box office extravaganzas fail. The story is a simple one - college youths in search of defining their roles in the universe on varying levels of sophistication are brought together in a small Vermont college town. The main character has given up on his seminary plan to become an Episcopal priest, engages in his first sexual encounter with a girl who becomes part of the trio of friends that drive this story. When homophobic signs appear in the gossip and visuals of this quiet community, the one who has the courage to quell this dangerous atmosphere is the local parish Episcopal priest ( a beautifully sensitve portrayal by A Martinez) by announcing from his podium that if as the rednecks suggest the bible states to kill homosexuals, then the town should start with him. His tender outing eventually results in his death which is surrounded in mystery. It is the resloving of the mystery that brings understanding and love to the youths and the townspeople. Filmed with flashbacks that only make sense as the film draws to a close enhances the chance taking that is present in this well directed and acted story. Worth watching for the 'food for thought' as well as for the technique of storytelling it demonstrates.

Rating:
Summary: Not as good as it could have been
Review: Ordinary Sinner, was not a bad film nor did it meet its potential. The production quality was good as was the sound quality. The acting was actually OK, Martinez stood out as the priest and was the most connected with the viewer. The issue with this film was that it was a bit slow and forced. The other leads had no connection with the viewer and when they tried to be dramatic, you could see it but not feel it. The script was good but did not get you drawn in to the story as well as it should have. The coming out scene of the priest was the finest moment in the film, it was the most powerful and at that piont you did feel involved but it lost me shortly after that scene. Overall it was not bad but also not a movie you would invite your friends over to see. I would suggest renting it if you can and see if you like it enough to spend the money to buy.This was not a great investment but is worth a look. You may want to see the movie " Priest".