“The Other Tom” is a silent film about a mother and son who say very little. Elena (Julia Chavez) is raising her son Tom (Israel Rodriguez) alone and struggling to cope with his academic and behavioral problems at her school. Tom is diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Elena dutifully administers the medication prescribed, but an accident leaves her wondering if the side effects are worth the benefit. You must decide for yourself what is best for your son and whether or not you stand your ground.
Set in El Paso, it’s a real and important story about the surveillance and control endured by people living with the help of social services, and how ADHD is misunderstood by uninformed teachers and parents. The film’s sets and props feel true to the characters’ economic and social situations, from Elena’s cracked phone screen to an impromptu readout of her skin care routine. From a magazine as a bedtime story. Elena offers what she can do for Tom with her limited resources and fiercely defends him.
However, the film, directed by Laura Santurro and Rodrigo Pula, ultimately fell through due to unconvincing dialogue and tense presentation by the actors. Even the most dramatic moments have little emotional scope, making it difficult to immerse or invest in Elena and Tom’s story. Elena speaks indifferently, with the typical dynamic movements of a child raised as a child. — and sometimes roughly — to Tom. It’s a story you don’t often see on the big screen, and one that deserves to be told.
another tom
Unrated. Running time: 1 hour 51 minutes. at the theater.