I watched this movie, because I'm a sucker for down and out people finding themselves through new relationships, but I was very disappointed by almost every part of the production. The storyline IS good, but the writing is very predicable and the acting uninspired. The characters were mostly 2-dimensional, with the combative, misunderstood teen, an embarrassingly stereotypical gay couple and a party filled with beautifu and handsomelbackground actors. The only actor who sold me was Avery Sommers as the probation officer. At times I felt like I was watching a college assignment to create a Hallmark movie. But I do have to give them credit for a good try at dramatizing important issues.
16 Reviews
a very touching story, also meaningful
tandrei200116 October 2011
Warning: Spoilers
I saw this movie 2 years from now on local cable TV, and decided to write this review after I have been contacted by the producer. It is one of the independent gems around the market that definitely worth a try. My wife, being a psychotherapist, also enjoyed this movies as being educational for youngsters. The tattoo the girl is wearing on her face, although I find it very cool is a symbol of her abused childhood that she eventually overcomes in the end. Anita Gillette is simply adorable in the role of an eccentric rich old lady, but very kindhearted afterall. Also I noticed the splendid music soundtrack made by Cara Tower. So, in conclusion, I highly recommend that you support this kind of independent artist and go see this one if you have the chance, or buy the DVD that went out. Andrei turcu, romania.
Predictable and Irritating
bartledan6 February 2016
As a licensed psychotherapist in Bulgaria who is in no way related to the movie's writer, I found this movie's message to be unbearable. I wanted to like the movie, and the actors did their best to salvage what they could from a terrible script, but good lord. Remove all of the originality and edginess from a Hallmark Channel movie, add an incredibly irritating soundtrack and play the whole thing back at half speed and you have a pretty good idea of what this movie is like.
Apparently I need more lines in this review to meet submission guidelines, so if I had to sum up this movie it would be: "slowly, gently, and repeatedly being punched in the face with mediocrity".
Apparently I need more lines in this review to meet submission guidelines, so if I had to sum up this movie it would be: "slowly, gently, and repeatedly being punched in the face with mediocrity".
Horrible
wangcheryl4 April 2019
A Tribeless Young Woman . . . .
sundayatdusk-9785923 April 2024
It appears a lot of the reviews here were written by those who knew the makers of the film, or saw it at a private screening. For the record, I watched it on my TV at home, streaming from Amazon. I almost turned it off soon after I started watching, too.
Victoria was totally obnoxious. In addition, she had a full-face tattoo that was highly distracting. Oddly, no one seemed to think it was odd, either, or made comments about it. (Well it did bring out the blue in her eyes.) It was the tribe type of tattoo, which was ironic, since Victoria lost her "tribe" as a young teenager.
Even odder, she not only gets in the door to interview for a job as a caregiver for a wealthy woman in Palm Beach; where she acts totally obnoxious during the whole interview; but gets the job. Only in the movies! I stuck with the film, however, because I liked Victoria's probation officer Sara, and liked Althea, the wealthy woman who hired her.
Moreover, the film starts off showing a young teenager on a farm, obviously having a happy childhood with her parents and younger brother. Was that Victoria? How did such a child end up a runaway and a hooker?
It is eventually revealed why her life took such a bad turn, and it was a typical reason why innocent girls run away and make very bad decisions. Only, in Victoria's case, a tragic incident happened even earlier, which made her whole life start spinning. Would kind-hearted Althea change Victoria and help her to become less bitter and less obnoxious?
Althea has some painful secrets of her own, but Althea has rock-hard faith in God. This is not a "preachy" film, however. It's a film about not giving up on someone, regardless of how hard she tries to make others give up on her.
P. S. At the end of the movie, the viewer sees why Victoria's full-face tattoo was a nonissue with everyone who encountered her. Not worth the distraction, in my opinion.
Victoria was totally obnoxious. In addition, she had a full-face tattoo that was highly distracting. Oddly, no one seemed to think it was odd, either, or made comments about it. (Well it did bring out the blue in her eyes.) It was the tribe type of tattoo, which was ironic, since Victoria lost her "tribe" as a young teenager.
Even odder, she not only gets in the door to interview for a job as a caregiver for a wealthy woman in Palm Beach; where she acts totally obnoxious during the whole interview; but gets the job. Only in the movies! I stuck with the film, however, because I liked Victoria's probation officer Sara, and liked Althea, the wealthy woman who hired her.
Moreover, the film starts off showing a young teenager on a farm, obviously having a happy childhood with her parents and younger brother. Was that Victoria? How did such a child end up a runaway and a hooker?
It is eventually revealed why her life took such a bad turn, and it was a typical reason why innocent girls run away and make very bad decisions. Only, in Victoria's case, a tragic incident happened even earlier, which made her whole life start spinning. Would kind-hearted Althea change Victoria and help her to become less bitter and less obnoxious?
Althea has some painful secrets of her own, but Althea has rock-hard faith in God. This is not a "preachy" film, however. It's a film about not giving up on someone, regardless of how hard she tries to make others give up on her.
P. S. At the end of the movie, the viewer sees why Victoria's full-face tattoo was a nonissue with everyone who encountered her. Not worth the distraction, in my opinion.
Interesting
jkilstrom6 July 2014
If this movie was made in 1984, I would have given it 6 stars being that most plots back then were cheesy and predictable. Considering it was made in 2006 and set in modern day, I found the plot cheesy and scattered. At first I thought it was something I could show my younger teenagers, but then they throw subjects like rape, incest, hookers, tattoos, gay couples, death, jail, etc. in it and it's like a cross of a Little Nikita episode meets Disney Channel from the 80s. I realize it's a low budget film and a feel good movie, but really, the script stunk. I question the 5 star reviews on here coming from family and friends who wanted to help those involved in the film get a better rating.
Hiding Victoria very powerful
didge-63 August 2006
I know the DP and saw the movie in an first uncut way. I can tell you I loved it as well as the performance of Victoria. Just amazing when you see this movie and you hear from the DP and his spouse how the movie was shot ( in what circumstance ). Just amazing. Perfect sets. Great acting skills. Beautiful shots. And just a perfect combination of the movie. Please go and see this movie !!!!! It is really great. It s something you might have seen before in an other style, but this one is really worth seeing it. Probably the first foreigner to have seen it. Just enjoy the movie and say I was right about my comment. Greeting from Belgium
Great Screenplay!
007gymnast9 April 2006
I think this screenplay is very well written. I recommend everyone to read it. Once the film comes out definitely make it the top of your list of must see films. In watching the Producer, Director and Director of Photography work I know this is going to be a powerful film. The beautiful cinematography, incredible location, and talented cast also will lead this film in being a success. It was managed,put together and organized well. The Writer/Directors vision has been brought to light and when the viewers see this piece it will evoke strong emotional responses due to its relevance to the human being today. Powerful, dramatic and simply wonderfully made. Good Job!
Viewed at Palm Beach Film Festival
mikeandpeg18 November 2009
I was fortunate to view the film in a quaint theater as part of the Palm Beach Film Festival in 2006-- the real bonus was knowing that many of the crew were in the audience and acting as ushers at the event. They were students from then a fledgling G-Star School of the Arts (1 of a kind high school that had just started in Palm Beach Co.) The film was more than just a movie for them, they saw the behind the scenes come to life on the screen and the meaning of life unfolded. What an intense and meaningful film for all ages. I really wanted to see it on the big screen, but look forward to owning a copy and sharing the film and its message. Dan and co. were just wonderful and should be applauded for writing, directing & producing this film. The actors were right on and showed Palm Beach in a realistic yet funny way. Most films lack meaning--not Victoria--there is a message for all.
I saw this movie in a Focus group
fgsltwthghobsj31617 July 2006
I saw Hiding Victoria in a focus group and it was AMAZING! I laughed, I cried, and was amazed by the acting and the twist at the end of the movie! It was AWESOME! Margo & Anita, and Todd, Michael & Avery were superb! Great movie! Can't wait to see it in the theater! The plot was so applicable for so many people in the world. This movie has something for everyone! Margo's tattoo was so cool and Anita Gillette was so wonderful as Althea. I loved them both! Todd & Michael (Vincent & Lenny) as the next door neighbors were great. They provided some comic relief and were great characters. Avery (Sarah) was perfect as Victoria's probation officer. The cinematography was beautiful. A message full of hope. The movie is right, the key to life lies within!
A message of forgiveness that is psychologically sound
romaniaretreat10 November 2008
As a United Kingdom registered psychotherapist working in Romania I highly recommend this film about forgiveness and letting go of the past. So good is it that I want all my clients to watch it.
So often people with a history of problems - particularly relating to abuse - hold on to their hatred and anger, never letting go. This film shows how even a person who has been very deep hurts can begin the step-by-step process of releasing themselves from the grip of the other person.
The film has plenty of action and evokes a variety of emotions. But it is not just about emotions. Even the person who doesn't show his/her emotions will find the film enjoyable.
Watch the film, enjoy it and be challenged.
Roger Day PTSTA (Psychotherapy), CTA (Psychotherapy), UKCP Registered Psychotherapist, Certified Play Therapist
So often people with a history of problems - particularly relating to abuse - hold on to their hatred and anger, never letting go. This film shows how even a person who has been very deep hurts can begin the step-by-step process of releasing themselves from the grip of the other person.
The film has plenty of action and evokes a variety of emotions. But it is not just about emotions. Even the person who doesn't show his/her emotions will find the film enjoyable.
Watch the film, enjoy it and be challenged.
Roger Day PTSTA (Psychotherapy), CTA (Psychotherapy), UKCP Registered Psychotherapist, Certified Play Therapist
Excellent
leisyka1 November 2007
I was lucky enough to see this movie in a private screening. I laughed, I cried and fell in love with the characters. Funny, poignant and beautifully acted. See Hiding Victoria because it is one of the most lovely coming of age stories of our time and because it is unmissable and unforgettable. Eloquently written, produced and directed, we see a troubled teen evolve in front of our eyes. Anita Gillette gives an award winning performance as the big hearted Althea. Margo Harshman as Victoria is hard to take at first but it doesn't take long until you feel her pain and struggle right along side her. This is a movie to watch more than once!
A film worth watching more than once
aronchak5 December 2006
My wife and I viewed this film at a private screening. We both thoroughly enjoyed it. It was serious, funny, heart-warming, and surprising. Great performances by all of the lead actors. Special kudos to the young actress who plays Victoria. The writer creates an awesome and unique storyline that anyone with trials and issues during life can relate to. The film draws you in will an exceptional ability to keep you engaged. I especially loved the the surprise revealed towards the end of this film. I understand the film was independently produced. But don't let that dissuade you from seeing this movie. Both my wife and myself are looking forward to seeing this film again on the big screen. My bet ... this movie is going to be a hit!
Great movie
dancarla-110 November 2008
This was a great movie. I saw the movie about a year ago and was excited to hear it was finally being released in the theater. I saw it for the second time this past weekend and enjoyed it just as much as I did the first time. I am glad to see it was finally being released in the United States. This is a movie I would definitely take more people to. This movie had a very powerful message that really made me think. I thought the part of Victoria was played very well. The transformation in her was very believable and interesting. The movie dealt with several very serious subjects but I liked how humor was mixed in to lighten it up. The actors did a great job. I hope to see this movie released at more theaters. I think it would be a great message to get out to more people. When it comes out on DVD, I will definitely be getting a copy. Congratulations on all the hard work of so many people.
A film with hope
jimcmunson5 December 2009
I would have to say this is one of the best films I have ever seen! It definitely speaks to real issues that are difficult and brings hope without sappy idealism. It's a 10!
You won't be disappointed with the story line or the actors. All work together in a wonderful way to layout a story that does not ignore the tragedies in personal lives and families but at the same time showing how healthy relationships can be cultivated that bring life from death!
The music is wonderful and the story itself has fantastic twists and turns as well as surprises. I think families would enjoy watching this together. The film will generate conversations that cross age barriers.
It's a wonderful work and a credit to the writer, director, and producer!
You won't be disappointed with the story line or the actors. All work together in a wonderful way to layout a story that does not ignore the tragedies in personal lives and families but at the same time showing how healthy relationships can be cultivated that bring life from death!
The music is wonderful and the story itself has fantastic twists and turns as well as surprises. I think families would enjoy watching this together. The film will generate conversations that cross age barriers.
It's a wonderful work and a credit to the writer, director, and producer!
GREAT MOVIE - TRUE LIFE
savinqueen17 January 2024
Thank you for writing/making this movie. It was refreshing to see a realistic movie that portrayed what can/does actually happen in life. Sheltering our children and families from the realities in life and the possibility of redemption does not help them. Far too many people have gone through things that they only want to share the "synopsis" because of fear of rejection and judgement.
I wish that we could all learn that everyone has things that have happened in their lives that they should be free to share. Everyone needs acceptance, forgiveness and healing. If we could all be more open to helping others there would be a lot less hurt in the world.
I hope there will be more to follow as this was a very touching movie.
I wish that we could all learn that everyone has things that have happened in their lives that they should be free to share. Everyone needs acceptance, forgiveness and healing. If we could all be more open to helping others there would be a lot less hurt in the world.
I hope there will be more to follow as this was a very touching movie.
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