Sorry but this story is simply not credible. Not worth renting. At every opportunity to avoid doing something stupid most of the characters miss that opportunity!
24 Reviews
Guns are bad! Who knew?
gerryfarwell-0757010 February 2022
So much heart!
ritamcmillin-364-42559126 October 2021
I didnt expect to like this film as much as I did and was genuinely surprised at how much it WASN'T the typical tired narrative. The story telling was new and fresh and the director did such an amazing job of making you feel connected with ALL of the characters and created this polarizing situation where you cant really even take a side. Reminded me a lot of 'Crash' in that we have characters from all walks of life and I felt to connected to all of them. This film is NOT the story you think it is and it will leave you feeling surprised, happy, sad, inspired and at a loss for words.
The cast and crew were also superb, especially for people that are not main stream and well known. There was NEVER a point where I felt the acting, cinematography, directing etc was off or not to par. Overall a great film and I'm looking forward to watching it again!
The cast and crew were also superb, especially for people that are not main stream and well known. There was NEVER a point where I felt the acting, cinematography, directing etc was off or not to par. Overall a great film and I'm looking forward to watching it again!
A film with a powerful message that we need to remember all the time, especially, this kind of period.
XueHuaBingYu26 January 2022
A shot through the wall film can be said as somewhat a good film. It has a powerful message and done with good intentions. I like this because it made me realise some decision that I have made a few months ago. So, I'd say this film somehow helped me realise a lot of things.
Racist is the worst thing in the world. There are bad people in every race. Just because you found one bad person or people in a race, not all people in that race is bad person/people. Every race got bad people. The things that one person/people done don't represent the other people's doing. So, don't put their (bad people's) blame on other people. We all need to remember that and stop being racist. This film shows this fact clearly. This is another reason why I like this film.
Anyway, back to the film, although I said it's a good film, still, I don't get some things like why Candace angry with Michael after he gave the photo of them two to the media when she was ready to go on TV together with Michael. And some facts made me not like Candace character. But in films, there are always something we don't get, so, I think it's okay to have a thing or two.
Hence, basically, although it's good to enjoy, but it's a little bit cold and too dramatic. As a girl who doesn't like dramas, well, I'd say it's just a fine film. It's enjoyable for first time watch only.
Racist is the worst thing in the world. There are bad people in every race. Just because you found one bad person or people in a race, not all people in that race is bad person/people. Every race got bad people. The things that one person/people done don't represent the other people's doing. So, don't put their (bad people's) blame on other people. We all need to remember that and stop being racist. This film shows this fact clearly. This is another reason why I like this film.
Anyway, back to the film, although I said it's a good film, still, I don't get some things like why Candace angry with Michael after he gave the photo of them two to the media when she was ready to go on TV together with Michael. And some facts made me not like Candace character. But in films, there are always something we don't get, so, I think it's okay to have a thing or two.
Hence, basically, although it's good to enjoy, but it's a little bit cold and too dramatic. As a girl who doesn't like dramas, well, I'd say it's just a fine film. It's enjoyable for first time watch only.
Worse than amateur hour
Top_Dawg_Critic26 June 2023
This was so frustratingly bad in every category. It's one of the few films out of thousands I've seen that I literally was swearing before I shut it off midway as it was unbearably painful to watch. The acting, especially Kenny Leu was laughably bad. I can't recall seeing worst acting and a character that was so unbelievable. I'm sure most of the blame falls on the lack of cast direction, but at least some of the other actors could hold their own. The you have this cliched story by writer and director Aimee Long that has been covered in every police procedural TV-show series ever created, but fit into a 45 min TV timeslot, and all done much better. Don't even get me started on how many movies like this one have already been made, and all, much better. The clearly obvious bogus high reviewers were more entertaining.
The tragedy is that people believe this
ImdbAllowsLeftwingExtemistBots21 January 2022
I'd usually give this political pander piece a 3 or 4, but the usual fake accounts have fake inflated the rating again.
It tries to be a tragedy but it's lost behind ridiculous monologues and trying to distract from the mountains of evidence that disprove the entire premise.
It tries to be a tragedy but it's lost behind ridiculous monologues and trying to distract from the mountains of evidence that disprove the entire premise.
It's not what you might be thinking, and that's a good thing!
Steve-from-Texas21 January 2022
I had not heard anything about the movie before I watched, and the storyline overview didn't really provide enough information to determine the movie's direction. I figured this was either going to be a propaganda piece, supporting the blue or BLM. Thankfully it was neither.
The movie provided a realistic snapshot in time of our culture. The justice system should be free from public influence and 'A Shot Through the Wall' painted that photo perfectly.
The acting was genuine and believable from the main characters all the way to the extras. It did an outstanding job showing the culture of the protagonist and his family, highlighting the differences between generations. It effectively touched on the minority perception of police enforcement without being judgmental. It touches on the different perceptions of gun ownership without choosing sides.
I would have given the movie 9 or 10 stars, but it failed to humanize the victim and his family, even with a nod towards them in the end. It could have delved into the lives of the victim's family a bit deeper. I think that's a big miss that separates this from being a REALLY good movie to one that's deserving consideration of an Oscar.
I hope this convinces you to watch. It'll be an excellent use of your next 90 minutes.
The movie provided a realistic snapshot in time of our culture. The justice system should be free from public influence and 'A Shot Through the Wall' painted that photo perfectly.
The acting was genuine and believable from the main characters all the way to the extras. It did an outstanding job showing the culture of the protagonist and his family, highlighting the differences between generations. It effectively touched on the minority perception of police enforcement without being judgmental. It touches on the different perceptions of gun ownership without choosing sides.
I would have given the movie 9 or 10 stars, but it failed to humanize the victim and his family, even with a nod towards them in the end. It could have delved into the lives of the victim's family a bit deeper. I think that's a big miss that separates this from being a REALLY good movie to one that's deserving consideration of an Oscar.
I hope this convinces you to watch. It'll be an excellent use of your next 90 minutes.
Another worst film! Full of boring conversation, and annoying overuse scene! Not recommended!
kwenchow25 January 2022
Warning: Spoilers
This film start a son "Mike" having conversation with his mom in the kitchen, and the flashbacks of 3 months earlier scene! As turnout, this film is about a Chinese cop "Mike" in the process of the scrutiny of allegedly killing a colored man, eventually he suffer the same fate of killing by a cop too!! Entire film full of boring conversation, and annoying overuse scene! Such as, overuse of the walking scene, overuse of the arguing scene, overuse of the calling names scene, overuse of the checking text message scene, overuse of the talking on the phone scene, overuse of the eating scene, overuse of the kissing scene, overuse of the interviewing scene, overuse of the staring scene, and overuse of the searching scene! Make the film unwatchable! At the end, Mike accidentally get killed by a cop, after he decided to plead himself guilty! That's it! Wasting time to watch!
One of the best films this year.
zfgzqkj28 October 2021
"A Shot Through the Wall" was not an easy film to watch by any means, going through the painful agony and remorses of a man. How the relationships with your significant others can seem so fragile when you are in your darkest days...
However, the depth and the amazing portrayal of character in addition to the screenplay was so captivating, it was clearly one of the best films I've seen this year.
However, the depth and the amazing portrayal of character in addition to the screenplay was so captivating, it was clearly one of the best films I've seen this year.
Thoughtfully created
liannawoo31 October 2021
It was really uncomfortable watching this film, the type of discomfort that is so needed for growth. It made me uncomfortable because it invited me to confront the issues that were addressed in this film. This film brought up so much conversation and important discussion among my peers. Issues of defunding the police to dismantling the whole system all together to addressing the racial tension within the film, and so much more. I looooove that we are still talking about this film!! Because it proves how important movies like "A Shot Through the Wall" needs to be produced.
There was so much thoughtfulness that was depicted in the film to the point someone had mentioned how the director doesn't point the finger at anyone. I love how she showcases the events that happens, to keep it simple I'd say this film illustrates the causes and effect of a system that may no longer be working for the best interest of the people.
Most of all, it was so incredibly awesome to see an Asian American lead, the character played by Kenny Leu, I felt for him, for his family and the other characters that were involved in the story. It was heart-wrenching and raw.
A must see if you enjoy the type of movies that will make you constructively consider the way the world works after the film is over.
There was so much thoughtfulness that was depicted in the film to the point someone had mentioned how the director doesn't point the finger at anyone. I love how she showcases the events that happens, to keep it simple I'd say this film illustrates the causes and effect of a system that may no longer be working for the best interest of the people.
Most of all, it was so incredibly awesome to see an Asian American lead, the character played by Kenny Leu, I felt for him, for his family and the other characters that were involved in the story. It was heart-wrenching and raw.
A must see if you enjoy the type of movies that will make you constructively consider the way the world works after the film is over.
MUST WATCH!!!
cherrietsunoda27 October 2021
I've seen this movie a few times through different film festivals, and every single time, I'm amazed by the performance, the quality of the production and the writing on this story! It's a timely topic, but a sensitive, delicate and complex one. And they do an excellent job telling all of the layers through the characters. I can't wait for more people to watch it, and feel the impact it had on me and many who saw it at the screening as well. Well done!!!
An uncomfortably powerful film. Must see.
stolensharpie29 October 2021
This is a stellar indie film. It had me biting my nails with the twists and turns the whole time! While acknowledging its support for nondiscrimination, it also recognizes that not every situation is black and white in a divided society. It's a film that shows that media frenzy and political pressures can take a tragic situation and turn it into a never ending nightmare that would have never happened had the parties involved been different people. While there are deep-seeded reasons and institutional faults as to why this story inspired by real events even transpired, it's important to know that things like this do actually occur. Cautionary tales exist, even if by accident.
The acting, story, and direction are amazing. Albeit, very touchy subject material, this film masterfully hits the layered nuances needed to make its message clear. 10/10.
The acting, story, and direction are amazing. Albeit, very touchy subject material, this film masterfully hits the layered nuances needed to make its message clear. 10/10.
Heart Wrenching
peaceofpai30 October 2021
A story of actions and consequences regarding a Chinese-American cop. Director Aimee Long switches up the typical cop story and delivers one that is new with a unique perspective.
A young cop, Mike, is on patrol duty when his partner, Ryan, notices something that demands their attention. From there, the story and action escalate and at the end of the scene someone is unfortunately shot. Kenny Leu's portrayal of Mike is very honest and relatable. *It made me wonder what was going through his mind and why he did the things he did.
As the story continues, Mike has to deal with the initial shock and then figure out how to navigate through life after the event. Not only is he concerned about himself and his profession but also for his loved ones and those close to him. The strong storytelling and attention to detail lead to twists and turns that keep you glued to the screen. The cast was really dynamic and added a lot of depth to the story. *I was pleasantly surprised to see two well known on screen dads in this film.
The ending shows us just how similar we are on the inside(mentally and emotionally) though our outside(physically or our appearance) may suggest otherwise. It's quite a coincidence that a story, such as this one, is vital and relevant to this present time. Hopefully this film will allow more people to realize how similar we all are so that we can relate to each other and not hate. Maybe this is grounds where discussions and talking points arise and develop, leading to a better understanding of one another and hopefully progress.
If you're ready to be moved and intrigued, go see this film! And bring some friends too!!
A young cop, Mike, is on patrol duty when his partner, Ryan, notices something that demands their attention. From there, the story and action escalate and at the end of the scene someone is unfortunately shot. Kenny Leu's portrayal of Mike is very honest and relatable. *It made me wonder what was going through his mind and why he did the things he did.
As the story continues, Mike has to deal with the initial shock and then figure out how to navigate through life after the event. Not only is he concerned about himself and his profession but also for his loved ones and those close to him. The strong storytelling and attention to detail lead to twists and turns that keep you glued to the screen. The cast was really dynamic and added a lot of depth to the story. *I was pleasantly surprised to see two well known on screen dads in this film.
The ending shows us just how similar we are on the inside(mentally and emotionally) though our outside(physically or our appearance) may suggest otherwise. It's quite a coincidence that a story, such as this one, is vital and relevant to this present time. Hopefully this film will allow more people to realize how similar we all are so that we can relate to each other and not hate. Maybe this is grounds where discussions and talking points arise and develop, leading to a better understanding of one another and hopefully progress.
If you're ready to be moved and intrigued, go see this film! And bring some friends too!!
Tear my heart
chihzontsai28 October 2021
I watched the movie a few months ago. Since from the beginning of the movie my heart goes with the cop, a young Chinese- American cop, he discharges a bullet accidentally goes through the wall and hit a young black man. His quilt, his trial, and his conscious seeking forgiveness from the victim's family are weaved into a web that hard to find an exit. The actors are not main-stream actors but they fit in the roles very well that make audience feel it is real happening but not watch a movie. It will make you laugh in connection you with family interact, it will make you sad how he trapped in the situation that hard to find an answer. It will make you cried how it turns an unexpected ending. You must see the movie to find you will embrace all the emotions you can never imagined!
A gem
k-tatiana0826 October 2021
It is such a comforting feeling to cling to a side. To know who the antagonist or protagonist is. An evil and mortifying monster vs a hero. This film does not allow us that opportunity. We have to stay in this uncomfortable middle all the way till the end.
It will make you cry and will probably leave you unable to put everything that you have observed and felt into words. Because sometimes words can't do the job of explaining our strange and contrasting life.
It is an artist's job to observe and translate what's around us into art, and this film has accomplished that. The cast was absolutely superb. I felt connected to all of the characters as they were taking me on their journey. One of the most memorable and heartbreaking films I have watched in a while.
It will make you cry and will probably leave you unable to put everything that you have observed and felt into words. Because sometimes words can't do the job of explaining our strange and contrasting life.
It is an artist's job to observe and translate what's around us into art, and this film has accomplished that. The cast was absolutely superb. I felt connected to all of the characters as they were taking me on their journey. One of the most memorable and heartbreaking films I have watched in a while.
Powerful.
suikabento29 October 2021
I watched this film last year & I'm still thinking about it.
It's rare to have a film tackle such a sensitive topic, yet navigate it so beautifully. The writing, directing and acting are tremendous. I've told all of my friends about this film, and I can't wait to watch it again in theaters.
It's rare to have a film tackle such a sensitive topic, yet navigate it so beautifully. The writing, directing and acting are tremendous. I've told all of my friends about this film, and I can't wait to watch it again in theaters.
Important & Moving
minji-133301 November 2021
I personally forget a lot of movies after watching them. Even if they're beautifully shot, the acting is on point, and it's well written, it still doesn't guarantee that it can touch my heart or leave a lasting impression. This film had me thinking, and most importantly FEELING, a LOT for weeks after I watched it. I'm grateful that Aimee Long was courageous enough to approach such a complicated story and perspective with such care, empathy, and curiosity. With her direction and Kenny Leu's very human and powerful performance alongside a great supporting cast, we got an inside look at an incredibly complex and important topic that can empower exploration and a path to real societal solutions. I left feeling more empathetic towards folks that I frankly didn't expect to, and with more questions than clear answers. I think that constitutes a very compelling film that can create lasting change. Bravo to the entire cast and crew!!
Such an important, impactful film
donniemcmillin27 October 2021
In a time where we all need to have more empathy and understanding for one another this film gives me hope for a better tomorrow...
I had the privilege of watching this film at a recent film festival and can't properly express how moved I was. I was impressed my every aspect of the film. The directing, the writing, editing diverse casting and performances were all incredible. I didn't feel like I was watching a movie but rather peering into the lives of real people going through an incredibly traumatic event.
The story is based on a tragic real life event. One that takes place far too often in America. A young black man unjustly being shot by a police officer. However, what makes this film special is its approach to authentically telling the story from all perspectives. We (the viewer) get to peer into the chaos that ensues behind the scenes of the justice system, the interpersonal relationships that implode under the pressure of national headlines, and the lives forever ruined after a loss.
Overall the creative minds behind this film capture the complicated emotions, and harsh realities of the situation so incredibly well that it oddly left me feeling optimistic.
"Wow, these people get it" is all I could think after leaving the theatre. Such a great film. Go watch it!
I had the privilege of watching this film at a recent film festival and can't properly express how moved I was. I was impressed my every aspect of the film. The directing, the writing, editing diverse casting and performances were all incredible. I didn't feel like I was watching a movie but rather peering into the lives of real people going through an incredibly traumatic event.
The story is based on a tragic real life event. One that takes place far too often in America. A young black man unjustly being shot by a police officer. However, what makes this film special is its approach to authentically telling the story from all perspectives. We (the viewer) get to peer into the chaos that ensues behind the scenes of the justice system, the interpersonal relationships that implode under the pressure of national headlines, and the lives forever ruined after a loss.
Overall the creative minds behind this film capture the complicated emotions, and harsh realities of the situation so incredibly well that it oddly left me feeling optimistic.
"Wow, these people get it" is all I could think after leaving the theatre. Such a great film. Go watch it!
A brave representation of the minority's perspective
zhengjwu22 January 2022
First of all, kudos to the production team and the cast for having the courage to represent the Asian American community's perspective about racial injustice, challenging the rhetoric of the mainstream media, which often influences the decisions of the criminal justice system. Secondly, the cast did a fanatic job expressing their internal complex emotions. As the viewer, I was able to get into their heads and felt their pain. A lot of the script was not explicitly said, but the viewer is able to fill in the blank on their own. Excellent execution! I hope those kind of movies would get more attention to help everyone understand the societal issues from multiple perspectives and empathize with each other.
Layers and layers of necessary and honest nuance
mbnqsxfr22 January 2022
I love this movie. I admit I was nervous at first (based on my views of the current state of affairs), but I was so moved by this story. The blend of newer actors and familiar faces was really great and the movie really dug into many difficult topics based on race, culture, tradition, and responsibility on so many levels - family, partnerships (romantic and professional), realities of civilian & police relations, acceptance, and the most difficult...loss. Intent & innocence? The tension! So complicated. Can't stop thinking about this movie and analyzing it from various angles. The dialogue was so heart-rending, and the characters' actions without dialogue were so revealing and poignant.
A MUST SEE
Eyeluvcinema28 October 2021
Inspired by a true story, this film navigates a very sensitive and emotionally charged topic, approaching this from a unique perspective that is often not well represented in film - the perspective of an Asian-American man. He is a rookie cop who kills a black man from a ricochet bullet. The film explores the events following this. Filmed pre-COVID, this is a MUST SEE film especially in light of the recent heightened attention to police brutality against people of color.
Worth every minute!
dzgrinfelds22 January 2022
You would think given the topic this film would have some political lean or commentary. No. It's just a well written and directed drama that makes you think. "How should I feel about what's going on?" "What happens after the final scene?" "What is right in this situation?" This is a gripping drama from start to finish I recommend to anyone for any reason.
"A Shot Through The Wall" is griping from beginning to end.
barry-5107026 January 2022
So many movies today miss the mark and have no touch with reality. The same cannot be said for "A Shot Through the Wall".
First, Kenny Leu is amazing. His acting skills and ability to portray so much emotion, just through his body language, puts him square up against any actor out there. He played his part so well. At many points you just wanted to reach out and give him a hug. Then there were the others where you wanted to smack him in the back of the head.
Second, the plot was so well scripted. It honestly shows how precious life is and that so much can change in the blink of an eye. When you think about it, that shot took milliseconds, and it left two families and an entire community asking the eternal burning question, why?
Some have commented that there were parts of the movie that were not needed. Respectfully, I am going to disagree. I truly believe all the parts were necessary to show why Kenny's character was acting the way he was. He had to deal with the complexities of his parents, his girlfriend, his co-workers, and his so-called "friends." Without this interweaving, we would not fully understand why his character was acting the way he was.
Be ready for a roller coaster of a ride and have the box of tissues ready. This movie deals with so many topics that unfortunately, even after all these years, are still causing division. Some of the topics are clear in the movie itself. Others, maybe less noticeable, such as why has it taken so long for this "melting pot" of a country to have Asian actors/actresses in leading roles? Thankfully, the tide has been turning for the last several years, but there is much more to be done.
An amazing movie that I will definitely be watching again.
First, Kenny Leu is amazing. His acting skills and ability to portray so much emotion, just through his body language, puts him square up against any actor out there. He played his part so well. At many points you just wanted to reach out and give him a hug. Then there were the others where you wanted to smack him in the back of the head.
Second, the plot was so well scripted. It honestly shows how precious life is and that so much can change in the blink of an eye. When you think about it, that shot took milliseconds, and it left two families and an entire community asking the eternal burning question, why?
Some have commented that there were parts of the movie that were not needed. Respectfully, I am going to disagree. I truly believe all the parts were necessary to show why Kenny's character was acting the way he was. He had to deal with the complexities of his parents, his girlfriend, his co-workers, and his so-called "friends." Without this interweaving, we would not fully understand why his character was acting the way he was.
Be ready for a roller coaster of a ride and have the box of tissues ready. This movie deals with so many topics that unfortunately, even after all these years, are still causing division. Some of the topics are clear in the movie itself. Others, maybe less noticeable, such as why has it taken so long for this "melting pot" of a country to have Asian actors/actresses in leading roles? Thankfully, the tide has been turning for the last several years, but there is much more to be done.
An amazing movie that I will definitely be watching again.
Great movie! Loved the ending.
abenezertasissa23 January 2022
Went deep into the difference between poor choice and a mistake. Overall great watch and great acting. As others have said the movie would've been great if it went over the victims humanity(it did partially). Regardless I feel like the movie did great job as it doesn't matter knowing the victims life or who he is as a person. The movie shows the viewer the different pov of the case. Great watch!
Brilliant Study on Police, Race, Loss, and the Power of Social Media
MichaelGoyette23 January 2022
I purchased this film on Apple and watched it tonight. Great job casting the characters; everyone fit nicely in their roles.
There were moments when the story caught me off guard and pulled my mind into a completely different direction from where I thought we were going.
This film is well made and definitely worth checking out!
There were moments when the story caught me off guard and pulled my mind into a completely different direction from where I thought we were going.
This film is well made and definitely worth checking out!
See also
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