Tiger Eyes (2012)

Tiger Eyes Poster

After Davey's father is killed in a hold-up, she and her mother and younger brother visit relatives in New Mexico. Here Davey is befriended by a young man who helps her find the strength to carry on and conquer her fears.

Intro
"Tiger Eyes", directed by Lawrence Blume and based upon Judy Blume's 1981 novel of the exact same name, is a 2012 American drama film that centers on the psychological journey of a 17-year-old lady, Davey, who transfers to New Mexico with her mom and younger sibling after the abrupt death of her father.

Plot Overview
The film begins with Davey Wexler's (Willa Holland) devastating minute as she witnesses her daddy's murder throughout a burglary in Atlantic City. Having no other option, Davey and her family relocate to Los Alamos, New Mexico, to cope with her mother's separated sister, Bitsy (Cynthia Stevenson) and Bitsy's partner.

New Mexico, with its extensive blue skies and alien-like landscapes, stands in stark contrast to Davey's previously understood urban life. The cultural shock is intensified as Aunt Bitsy maintains a stringent, suffocating household regimen that barely leaves room for Davey to grieve and process her loss.

Character Development
In the middle of her brand-new life, Davey fulfills a mysterious young Native American male - Wolf (Tatanka Means). Although strong-willed, Davey is likewise deeply vulnerable and the sensitive, mentally intelligent Wolf ends up being Davey's pal, and through him, she discovers more about his culture, that includes a respectful recognition of the circle of life and death.

Emotional Journey and Healing
Davey likewise discovers sanctuary through singular walkings in the surrounding canyons, where she frequently encounters Wolf, who works at a local hospital. They share a tender relationship; however, Wolf knows that they both need to resolve their individual suffering separately in order to recover and proceed.

The story also discuss Davey's progressing romance with a schoolmate, Jane (Elise Eberle), and her academic pursuits. Meanwhile, Davey's mom, Gwen (Amy Jo Johnson), falls under deep anxiety, culminating in a suicide attempt, additional intensifying stress in the household.

Conclusion and Resolution
As Davey battles to browse her psychological discomfort, she courageously works through her sorrow, taking actions towards recovery. She gains strength through her connection with nature, helpful buddies, and her quiet companionship with Wolf, making the tough decision to move back to Atlantic City with her household.

Towards the end, Wolf leaves Davey a Native American talisman, which signifies defense throughout travel. Davey accepts her loss and understands that she should keep progressing. The movie concludes with Davey returning home, empowered, transformed and healed, symbolically marking her journey from a susceptible teen to a durable female.

Styles and Critical Reception
"Tiger Eyes" addresses styles of grief, recovery, resilience, teen maturity, and multiculturalism. The movie is applauded for its raw and honest representation of a teen dealing with the loss of a parent, featuring nuanced efficiencies, specifically by Willa Holland. The stunning New Mexico landscapes likewise enhance the aesthetic appeal of the film. However, some critics discovered the narrative pacing a little unequal and the character development of secondary characters doing not have depth. Regardless of these criticisms, "Tiger Eyes" was normally popular and applauded for its delicate handling of a complicated psychological journey.

Top Cast

  • Willa Holland (small)
    Willa Holland
    Davey
  • Tatanka Means (small)
    Tatanka Means
    Wolf - Martin Ortiz
  • Amy Jo Johnson (small)
    Amy Jo Johnson
    Gwen Wexler
  • Elise Eberle (small)
    Elise Eberle
    Jane Albertson
  • Cynthia Stevenson (small)
    Cynthia Stevenson
    Bitsy Kronick
  • Russell Means (small)
    Russell Means
    Willie Ortiz
  • Lucien Dale
    Jason Wexler
  • Forrest Fyre
    Walter Kronick