We talk about the film “Palmer,” a modest indie drama starring Justin Timberlake.

At the end of January 2021, the streaming service Apple TV+ released the film “Palmer” directed by Fisher Stevens (“Real Boys”). This is a touching story about human relationships, in which the filmmakers reflect on masculinity and gender stereotypes, including the influence and consequences of conservative views on their own supporters.

Predictable but Gripping Story

Former football star Eddie Palmer (Justin Timberlake) returns to his hometown after 12 years in prison. Days blur into one endless routine: a fussy grandmother and a deserted house, dinner on schedule, a job interview as a janitor, and, of course, the unanswered question — “How to live on?”.

Then Sam (Ryder Allen) enters his life, a funny little boy in red boots with an unstoppable desire to join the princess club and a million questions why. Why does a boy watch cartoons for girls? Why do parents leave their children? And who and why hurt Sam by drawing on his face with lipstick?

Sam becomes a kind of example for Palmer of how to stand up to society’s opinion and live the way you see fit. They save each other — from loneliness and the aggression of the outside world.

You can guess the resolution within the first seconds of watching, but “Palmer” charms, leads an unsophisticated dialogue, and unobtrusively raises themes of upbringing and self-determination. The truths “conflicts must be resolved with words” and “life is not divided into black and white” are as old as the world, but their skillful and sincere illustration is a joy for fans of social dramas.

What’s Bothersome

Frankly banal and stereotyped secondary characters. They serve only as a backdrop to the main duo. Without motivation, subtext, or life. They fulfill their functions but are instantly forgotten.

Cinema is overflowing with stories of cause-and-effect relationships between ostracism and nonconformity, between lack of love and rebellion, between drug addiction and special children — as if they would have grown up normal if raised in a decent family. In this regard, “Palmer” does not surprise. It’s hard to demand any multifacetedness from it, and should we?

Why You Should Watch the Film “Palmer”

Feelings. “Palmer” touches a nerve, pats you on the head, and says everything will be okay. Tea, blanket, cookies — the film is like a cozy corner for an aching soul.

Closeness. Brave to the end and childishly sincere Sam is a reflection of the brightest personal desires. To speak openly and be here and now without labels and hypocrisy. Who but a child possesses such superpowers one hundred percent?

Reflection and acceptance of the world will lead to the right answers — that’s what “Palmer” is about. About the fact that a person’s identity is broader than established norms. Being who you want to be is everyone’s right. Plus, you need a dose of courage to resist outdated and cruel stigmas and to find those who are on your path. A film about the right to happiness, despite others’ opinions and seemingly irreversible life mistakes.

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