Anthem of a Teenage Prophet

Anthem of a Teenage Prophet is a 2018 coming-of-age drama film directed by Robin Hays and based on the novel of the same name by Joanne Proulx. The film stars Cameron Monaghan as Luke Hunter, a high school student who begins experiencing visions of the future after his best friend dies in a surfing accident.

The film takes place in a small town in the Pacific Northwest and opens with Luke and his tight-knit group of friends enjoying their summer break before their senior year of high school. Luke's friend, Stan (Alex MacNicoll), dies while surfing, and Luke becomes haunted by visions of his death. He soon realizes that he has the ability to see the future, which gives him a glimpse into the fate of those around him.

As Luke struggles to come to terms with his newfound ability, he also grapples with his own identity and relationships. He is in love with his best friend, Fang (Grayson Gabriel), but isn't sure how to tell him. Luke's relationship with his mother (Juliette Lewis) is strained, and he feels more comfortable spending time with his father's old friend, Mr. Carswell (Danny Woodburn).

As the school year begins, Luke's visions become more intense, and he becomes consumed with trying to prevent tragedy. His friends are skeptical at first but become believers when his predictions start coming true. Cameron Monaghan delivers a strong performance as Luke, capturing his vulnerability and raw emotion as he navigates his powers.

The film also features Peyton List as Faith, a new student at school who Luke befriends. She has her own secrets and struggles, which she confides in Luke. The two strike up a close friendship, but it isn't long before she realizes that Luke's visions are more than just random occurrences.

The cinematography in Anthem of a Teenage Prophet is beautiful, showcasing the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The film has a moody, atmospheric feel that adds to the sense of unease that permeates Luke's life. The soundtrack is also noteworthy, featuring music from artists like Arcade Fire and The National.

While the film deals with heavy topics like grief and loss, it never feels heavy-handed or melodramatic. Instead, it presents a nuanced portrayal of young people grappling with big issues and trying to find their place in the world. The relationships between the characters feel authentic, and the film doesn't shy away from depicting the complexities of teenage friendships and romance.

Anthem of a Teenage Prophet is a moving film that explores themes of destiny, identity, and the power of friendship. It's a coming-of-age story that doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of growing up but ultimately leaves the viewer with a sense of hope. It's a strong debut for director Robin Hays and a standout performance from Cameron Monaghan.