Director Joe Grisaffi screened this film at our university and it completely exceeded my expectations! The script is beautifully written by Gilmore, who also gives a lovable performance as Lars with the help of a charismatic and varied supporting cast. Grisaffi is a wonderful director who isn't afraid to take risks with style or content. It's a very funny film but also very poignant story about depression, adulthood and friendship. It never gets too dark, neither does it get too corny. Grisaffi himself is a very friendly guy who is extremely passionate about what he does, so it was awesome to get to meet him! As a film lover, I totally recommend this movie.

This movie does a great job exploring depression and related issues that teens (or really anyone) face, without being too "dark" or "heavy." It was the perfect movie to lift my spirits on a rainy, gloomy day. The characters are quirky and funny, yet totally believable and relatable. There is one scene in particular, involving shopping carts (I won't say more so as not to spoil), that had me laughing out loud. Kudos to the writer/ lead actor, Paxton Gilmore. His portrayal of Lars really carried this film. Also to the director, Joe Grisaffi, who pulled everything together nicely. Overall, a great independent film! I highly recommend it!

Being honest I didn't know what to expect from this movie. After seeing it though, I have been inspired by the many messages the movie portrays. From real issues dealing with today's youth, to marriage and dealing with death. drugs, friends, influences, relationships and marriage. This is a powerful film that should get be seen by youth. If you get a chance to see it please do! Even though there are some tough scenes this movie gives a real and pretty accurate view into the world of a teenagers. This movie will encourage you to speak to the social awkward kid, that you may not understand in a whole new light. Hope the messages in this movie will motivate many adults to remember how hard todays youth experience the world.

Lars the Emo kid is an independent movie which manages to simultaneously entertain and deliver a serious message. Director, Joe Grisaffi, works his synergistic magic here pulling together great writing, genius casting and his own talent to create a cinematic experience that defies it's budget.The characters are believable without going over the top, but never take themselves too seriously. Lars the Emo Kid is underpinned by gentle wit with occasional laugh out loud moments when it all gets too ridiculous. Go see this movie, and make sure you take a troubled teen with you. Nicole Elliott, Paxton Gilmore and Sara Gaston are the stand-out talent in this feature.