This is Where We Live - B-

Unrated, 92 minutes

Affecting, low-key "This Is Where We Live" shows the power of simple relationships

The Texas-based and filmed independent drama "This is Where We Live" is a tender, restrained look at the value of relationships, even unconventional ones. Directed by and starring Marc Menchaca in an auspicious feature film debut and actor and director, it's a memorable but downbeat view on life in general. A struggling family's dynamics are challenged and a unique friendship is born when a small-town Texas handyman named Noah (Menchaca) becomes caregiver to their son August with cerebral palsy (played by Tobias Segal, in a remarkable performance for the actor who is not disabled). Handsomely filmed in the Hill Country of Texas and well-acted by a mostly unknown cast (except for the always familiar Barry Corbin in a small role), "This Is Where We Live" has been a hit on the festival circuit over the last year and just now getting a limited release, is worth your time if you stick with it. Slow-moving and somewhat obscure, the value of the film is the unusual but palpable relationship between Noah and August as Noah assimilates into this somewhat odd but caring family and seeing how much alike Noah and August really are, even though one cannot speak. Both Menchaca and Segal are excellent as is C.K. MacFarland as the Mom who is trying to keep the family together. "This Is Where We Live" doesn't have wide appeal and the pacing is very slow, but very moving in small ways if you stay with it and give it time to grow on you. An independent film worth a look, see it before it goes away.

Wes's Grade: B-