Struck by Lightning (2012)

Struck by Lightning Poster

After being struck and killed by lightning, a young man recounts the way he blackmailed his fellow classmates into contributing to his literary magazine.

Introduction of "Struck by Lightning"
"Struck by Lightning" is a 2012 coming-of-age comedy-drama movie directed by Brian Dannelly and composed by, as well as starring, Chris Colfer, who is commonly understood for his role in the television series "Glee". The film is a poignant and amusing take on the aspirations and difficulties of high school life, climaxing with a terrible yet impactful conclusion.

Plot Synopsis
The movie begins with the death of the protagonist, Carson Phillips (played by Chris Colfer), who is struck by lightning in the school parking lot. This occasion sets the stage for a retrospective look at Carson's life. The movie then backtracks to information his remaining days and the actions he requires to attempt to achieve his dreams.

Residing in a small town with his dysfunctional and unambitious family, Carson dreams of getting away and becoming an effective author. He hopes to begin this journey by getting into a prominent composing program at Northwestern University. To strengthen his college application, he decides to produce a literary magazine for his high school. However, his concept does not pique his classmates' interests, so Carson resorts to blackmailing them into contributing their composed work after he erroneously reveals different secrets about some of the students.

The vibrant cast of characters in Carson's high school life includes his buddy Malerie (played by Rebel Wilson), who assists him execute his strategies, and a spectrum of stereotypical high school figures-- from the popular cheerleader to the jock-- each with their distinct issues and contributions to the magazine. Through these interactions, the film addresses themes like adolescence, aspiration, and the pressures of high school society.

Characters and Performances
Chris Colfer's representation of Carson is filled with wit, sarcasm, and a touch of cynicism. He's an outsider who is sharp-tongued and smart yet shows a vulnerable side, especially when dealing with his household's dysfunction, particularly his strained relationship with his alcoholic mother (played by Allison Janney) and missing dad (played by Dermot Mulroney). Rebel Wilson supplies the comic relief as Malerie, the faithful partner, and her performance balances the film's darker minutes with humor.

Styles of Ambition and Acceptance
Throughout the movie, the viewers are introduced to numerous styles, most notably the pursuit of ambition and the requirement for acceptance. Carson's unyielding desire to leave his small-town life is a driving force of the narrative, and his willingness to go to extreme lengths to attain his goals-- like using blackmail-- is a representation of his deep-rooted need for approval and recognition.

The supporting characters likewise face their insecurities and social pressures, which are reflected in the work they submit to Carson's magazine. This underscores the universal battle for individual approval and the desire to be heard, specifically in a setting as volatile as high school.

Effect and Resolution
"Struck by Lightning" does not avoid disaster. The sudden death of Carson works as a powerful catalyst for thinking about one's tradition and the effect we hope to leave behind. As the movie progresses towards its conclusion, the narrative mean the idea that even a short life can be significant and influential, particularly if one lives passionately and real to oneself.

The film concludes with a bittersweet tone, inspiring viewers to reflect on their objectives, the lengths they would go to accomplish them, and the importance of living each minute to its max. In spite of its preliminary comical setup, "Struck by Lightning" progresses into a heartfelt assessment of teenage years, dreams, and the complexities of human connection.

Top Cast

  • Chris Colfer (small)
    Chris Colfer
    Carson Phillips
  • Dermot Mulroney (small)
    Dermot Mulroney
    Neal Phillips
  • Sarah Hyland (small)
    Sarah Hyland
    Claire Mathews
  • Allison Janney (small)
    Allison Janney
    Sheryl Phillips
  • Christina Hendricks (small)
    Christina Hendricks
    April
  • Graham Rogers (small)
    Graham Rogers
    Scott Thomas
  • Rebel Wilson (small)
    Rebel Wilson
    Malerie Baggs
  • Polly Bergen (small)
    Polly Bergen
    Grandma
  • Angela Kinsey (small)
    Angela Kinsey
    Counselor
  • Ashley Rickards (small)
    Ashley Rickards
    Vicki Jordan
  • Matt Prokop (small)
    Matt Prokop
    Dwayne Michaels