We've heard quite a lot about PTSD, but how many films have we seen depict its truly crippling destructive effects, while at the same time offering some insight into recovery or at least management? In "Least Among Saints" that road for vet Anthony leads to the broken home of a troubled youth named Wade. Martin Papazian writes, directs, and plays Anthony in this quietly compelling intimate story of compassion and redemption through service to others - some high quality themes. Good acting and direction, and despite some details that push plausibility, this character/film will earn your empathy. That said, although personally rooting for this "good person" deserving of second chances, when it comes to operating a vehicle on a public avenue, I have more compassion for innocent bystanders than the stoned driver with PTSD. Take his license away for a while, please. And to round out reality, why not show me this good guy impressing social services with his dedication to achieve each well-stated item on its redemption agenda instead of a Hallmark card fade-out which belies the well-earned grit of the film. That said, at the end of the day, the movie does affect. I was certainly emotionally involved, and my girlfriend (who screened the film along with me) asked me to include her quote in this review: "This movie brought me to tears, showing the power of love and compassion."

BTW: It would have made a nice credit roll sequence to show Anthony return to Hotel Apache to disarm and properly dispose of the weapon he left on the road, as to avoid the very real possibility of some unsuspecting kids picking it up for a romp of cops and robbers.

Interesting live discussion with Martin and Laura here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90n-tzF4Dms

-- Books by Author/Illustrator Ross Anthony --