Director: Peter Paige
Genre: Drama
Runtime: 85 minutes
IMDb Rating: 6.1/10

Plot: The Crossroads of Youth

Leaving Barstow follows Andrew (Kevin Sheridan), a high school senior in the small town of Barstow, California. As graduation approaches, Andrew dreams of a life beyond his hometown’s confines. However, his deep-seated loyalty to his mother, Sandra (Michelle Clunie), and his burgeoning relationship with newcomer Jenny (Ryan Michelle Bathe) create a web of emotional ties. Andrew grapples with the pivotal decision of pursuing his own aspirations or remaining to support the people he loves.​

Visual Style: Intimate and Reflective

Director Peter Paige employs a straightforward and unembellished visual style, mirroring the simplicity and monotony of small-town life. The cinematography captures the arid landscapes of Barstow, emphasizing the protagonist’s feelings of confinement and his yearning for broader horizons.​

Cast: Authentic Portrayals of Complex Relationships

Kevin Sheridan (Andrew): Sheridan delivers a nuanced performance, embodying the internal conflict of a young man torn between personal ambition and familial duty.​

Michelle Clunie (Sandra): Clunie portrays Sandra with depth, illustrating a mother who, despite her flaws and personal struggles, relies heavily on her son’s presence and support.​

Ryan Michelle Bathe (Jenny): Bathe brings warmth to the character of Jenny, representing new possibilities and the allure of change in Andrew’s life.​

Ryan Carnes (Cody): Carnes plays Cody, a charismatic yet aimless young man whose relationship with Sandra adds complexity to the family dynamics.​

Steven Culp (Mr. Johns): Culp portrays Mr. Johns, a dedicated teacher who recognizes Andrew’s potential and encourages him to pursue higher education.

Themes: The Tension Between Dreams and Responsibilities

The film delves into the universal struggle of balancing personal aspirations with obligations to loved ones. It explores themes of self-discovery, the fear of change, and the often-painful process of making life-altering decisions. Andrew’s journey reflects the challenges many face when confronting the unknown and the comfort of familiarity.​

Reception: A Mixed Response

Leaving Barstow received a range of reactions from audiences and critics. While some praised its heartfelt storytelling and authentic character portrayals, others felt the narrative treaded familiar ground without offering new insights. The film holds a 50% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a polarized reception.​

The Critic’s Verdict

Leaving Barstow presents a sincere and contemplative look at the crossroads between youthful ambition and familial loyalty. While it may not break new ground in the coming-of-age genre, its genuine performances and relatable themes offer a poignant reflection on the choices that define our paths.​

Rating: 6.5/10

A heartfelt exploration of the delicate balance between pursuing one’s dreams and honoring family commitments.

Pair With

The Spectacular Now (2013) for another introspective take on adolescent transitions, or Garden State (2004) for a narrative centered around returning home and confronting personal growth.

Cultural Footprint

By portraying the nuanced challenges of leaving one’s comfort zone, Leaving Barstow contributes to the broader conversation about the complexities of personal growth and the ties that bind us to our origins.​