Citizen DuaneDirector: Michael Mabbott
Writers: Robert DeLeskie, Jonathan Sobol
Starring: Douglas Smith, Donal Logue, Devon Bostick, and Jane McGregor
Rated: PG-13
Release date: 2006 | DVD release date: 2010

Duane Balfour (Douglas Smith) comes from a long line of failures. In his small town of Ridgeway, Duane is tired of the elite few (mainly the Miltons) who run things and plans to do something about it. After repeated confrontations with Chad Milton (Nicholas Carella), son of Mayor Kelly Milton (Rosemary Dunsmore), and countless failed attempts at revenge, Duane plans to run for Mayor.

Duane’s aspirations are inhibited only by his personality and stubbornness. As Duane begins his campaign, his girlfriend Molly (Jane McGregor) is among the first be neglected. Duane’s family also begins to show their concern. Duane’s cool intellect and down to earth persona gain him support from the community, but it isn’t long before he realizes being Mayor may not bring him satisfaction.

The concept of this film was fairly original. In the vein of films such as Charlie Bartlett, Rocket Science, and Assassination of a High School President, the movie is a offbeat coming of age comedy coated with dramatic life lessons. The film has its funny moments and our misfit Duane is a likable yet quirky character.

The acting all around is fairly well done. Douglas Smith fits his role well. I also enjoyed seeing Donal Logue as the crazy uncle; he really needs to be in more films. Vivica A. Fox also makes an appearance as Duane’s teacher who tries to show him some guidance…if only I had teachers like her. Newcomer Devon Bostick (Survival of the Dead) plays a small yet noteworthy role as Duane’s brother.

A great cast and offbeat concept make Citizen Duane a nice coming of age story with a message. My only complaint is that the balance between comedy and serious drama was not always clear. There were a few scenes that were seemingly satire and exaggerations, while other scenes tried to get real and serious. I can’t help but feel the film would have been more pleasurable had it focused more on one or the other. In the end, I give Duane my vote for its heartfelt message and honest performances.
Trailer (YouTube) | IMDb

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