Wild Tigers I Have Known (2007)

Middle school is rarely an easy time, but it's particularly difficult for Logan (Malcolm Stumpf) in this coming-of-age film set in the 1980s. He has the requisite unrequited crush--but the object of his affection is a boy named Rodeo (Patrick White). Logan spends time with Rodeo and fellow outcast Joey (Max Paradise), but he's far from fitting in. His home isn't even a haven since his single mother (Fairuza Balk, PERSONAL VELOCITY) isn't sure what to do with her son. Logan continues to grapple with his feelings of attraction for his friend as he determines who he is.

Though it shares a setting and theme with some of John Hughes's "Brat Pack" films, WILD TIGERS I HAVE KNOWN couldn't be farther from those 1980s classics. Though there are moments of humor, this is a dark and unconventional film that exposes the isolation of growing up as an outcast. In his first starring role, Stumpf carries the film well. He ably expresses Logan's desire--both for Rodeo and for acceptance. First-time-feature director Cam Archer also wrote, edited, and produced the film, and it's a unique offering. Though there is a plot running through it, flashes of Logan's daydreams give WILD TIGERS I HAVE KNOWN a close resemblance to an art film. This independent drama isn't for those devoted to blockbusters, but it gives a convincing look at how teens cross over from innocence to maturity.