Paranoid Park

"Return to Innocence"

review of Paranoid Park (2008)- Gus Van Sant

"Paranoid Park" is one of Gus Van Sant's finest films. Elephant was a masterpiece as well, but now I am unsure which one is more entertaining. This film certainly gave it a run for it's money.

Let me start off by saying that I am not much of a skater fan (skateboarding, roller blading, etc.). I have never watched the X Games, or even watched a single independent skating film. Going into my first viewing of Paranoid Park, I was expecting to be disappointed by long and drawn out skating cut scenes that take away from Van Sant's beautiful style. To put it lightly, I was wrong. This film showed more realism in a plot unlike anything I have ever seen before. Just when you think that the plot in Elephant is about as realistic as it can get, Paranoid Park throws you for a loop.

The plot and gorgeous cinematography truly bring out Alex's soul, our main character. Being only a teenager in high school, Alex lacks knowledge beyond his own innocence. His friend Jared continuously pressures him into joining the local skaters at the illegal "Paranoid Park", while his girlfriend Jennifer pressures him into losing his virginity. Who couldn't relate to situations like this? High school years are the most pressuring times in our lives, and sometimes the stress almost becomes too much to handle. Alex handles his emotions by writing in a journal near the shore, as well as conversing with his father, who has moved out since divorcing Alex's mother.

Eventually, Alex gives in to taking a trip to Paranoid Park with Jared and experiences one of the most realistically enthralling places in his hometown. The park itself is an eerie place, and becomes the suspect of a crime that takes place on the railroad tracks near by. When Alex and his fellow skaters are questioned by a private detective at school, they come to a crossroads: continue living the life of a free-spirited skater in a dangerous part of town, or give into the paranoia.

The constant inner struggle of Alex lets us deep into his soul. The audience sees what he sees and feels what he feels. Only when and if Alex decides to raise his sense of morality can he truly regain his innocence.