That Was Then... This Is Now

Emilio Estevez and Craig Sheffer star in the gripping 1985 drama, "That Was Then... This Is Now". This film adaptation of S.E. Hinton's beloved novel of the same name, boasts a top-notch performance by the leading actors, intriguing plot, and a realistic portrayal of life in an American neighborhood during the 1980s. The movie reflects the struggles, growth, and transformation of its young characters as they navigate through the challenging landscape of their adolescence in a low-income environment.

Set in the heartlands of urban Minneapolis, the narrative revolves around the intertwining lives of Bryan (Sheffer) and Mark (Estevez), who share more than just their home. Raised as brothers after the death of Mark's parents, the meaningful relationship formed amongst the inevitable trials and tribulations of their disruptive environment, is a key component of the movie. Bryan is a calm, thoughtful teenager, studying for his high school graduation while Mark, under the shadow of his traumatic past, has developed into a reckless and impulsive youth. The duo's contrasting personalities creates a unique synergy and dynamic to the movie, which propels the narrative throughout the film.

Their world is further complicated by the arrival of Angela (Kim Delaney), a fascinating but troubled beauty who unintentionally begins to drive a wedge between the adoptive brothers. As Bryan develops feelings for Angela, tension mounts between him and Mark escalating conflicts that test their bond. Amidst this personal turmoil, each character is confronted with the harsh realities of their environment, including gang violence, drug abuse, and poverty. These external pressures threaten to shatter their unity, pushing each character to the brink as they are forced to ascertain who they truly are and the men they want to become.

Emilio Estevez delivers an intense performance as Mark, balancing the troubled past and emotional turmoil of his character with a striking assertiveness and palpable energy. Craig Sheffer, on the other hand, captures the essence of Bryan's tender-hearted nature and his quest for a better future with notable sensitivity. Their strong performances, along with an equally impressive supporting cast, bring to life the profound social and personal issues addressed in the film.

Hoping to straddle the line between survival and morality, Mark and Bryan are forced to confront the stark realities of an unwelcoming world, which prides itself in crushing dreams and extinguishing hope. The nuanced portrayal of these youthful lives, caught in the crossfire of societal discord and personal dilemmas, adds depth and texture to the narrative, making "That Was Then… This Is Now" more than just another coming-of-age drama.

Despite it being a movie centered around the tribulations of the youth, the themes it explores are universal. It delves into the themes of love, camaraderie, loss, betrayal, and the human capacity for resilience, change. Layered with complex characters and a plot that navigates through heavy topics with grace, "That Was Then… This Is Now" delivers a poignant socio-cultural commentary effortlessly embedded within the storytelling.

Directed by Christopher Cain, "That Was Then... This Is Now" manages to retain the essence of Hinton's nuanced character study while introducing a cinematic depth to the narrative. The harsh realities of the characters’ environment are finely contrasted with moments of personal growth and self-discovery, crafting a cinematic experience that is as engaging as it is insightful.

A powerful and poignant tale of adulthood in the face of adversity, "That Was Then... This Is Now" is an exploration of human relationships, moral quandaries, and the harsh realities of life that willingly or unwillingly propel individuals into adulthood. This movie is a stark portrayal of the challenges faced by the youth forced to grow up quickly; it sensitively captures the pains of growing up and the bitter sweetness of saying goodbye to one's childhood.

In conclusion, "That Was Then... This is Now" is a melodramatic narrative richly set in a compelling era and context. Filled with compelling performances and a powerful narrative, the film is a thought-provoking experience that effectively captures the essence of adolescence, brotherhood, and the overwhelming pressure of societal expectations. It is a timeless piece, and its themes remain relevant to this day, marking it as a classic in the genre of coming-of-age films.