The only downfall of this film is that it jumps around a bit, making it a little hard to follow at times. But this is something that is easily overcome as the film wears on. The ending seems to clarify quite a lot of the confusion that is created in the beginning of the film.

While On the Outs may not go off and capture the mainstream audience, it should have a place in our society. This is the type of film that suburban moms and dads can show their kids to remind them how good they really have it when they complain about not getting that iPod that they wanted. There are parts of America that are like the world depicted in this movie, and a film like this does not sugar-coat; rather, it slaps you in the face with a dose of reality that most of our country would rather ignore. I would recommend this one to anyone who is looking for a film that will move them, and that will make them think about our society. If you are looking for pure entertainment value, I suggest you look elsewhere.

The Upside:
A raw, gripping, and absolutely unnerving look at the culture of the streets in America.
The Downside:
It gets a little jumpy and hard to follow in the beginning.
On the Side:
This film earned a Grand Jury Prize at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival.

Final Grade: B+

Film Stats:
Starring: Anny Mariano, Judy Marte, Paola Mendoza
Directed by: Lori Silverbush, Michael Skolnik
Writing Credits: Lori Silverbush
Country: USA
MPAA: Rated R for pervasive language, strong drug use, some violence and sexual content.
Run Time: 86 min.
Studio: Fader Films (official site)
Trailer

By Neil Miller, Editor of Film School Rejects