The Film Short Term 12 by Destin Daniel Cretton - Movie Review Example

In the film Short Term 12, The depiction of love as a secret affair between Grace and Mason is done secretly. However, it is no longer hidden as Grace discovers that she was pregnant for Mason (Cretton, 2014). A difficult moment for Grace is when a new patient arrives called Jaden who stirs up unpleasant memories. Grace is devastated because of the stories she receives from Jayden. The decision for Grace indicates how she is in distress given her friends were profoundly worried about children and cared for them.

However, the issue of marriage bothers Grace, the major changes indicate her turning point. This forces her to make difficult perceptions and decisions which would compromise her career and her charges are at dire risk. Short Term 12 shows many of the dark realities that young people can face in their lives; however, the film’s realistic use of humor and hope for many of the characters makes what could have been a depressing film into an enjoyable and accessible film for audiences. Humor is used in a realistic way to undercut some of the more emotionally upsetting scenes in the film.

Mason asks Grace how she likes his cupcake after Jayden has a violent reaction to her father not picking her up for her birthday (Cretton, 2014). The essence of humor is depicted in the way Jayden's traits follow an amusing anecdote. His positive force in the firm covers his warm heart nature because of his upbringing. The foster family treats him well and he is glad to called theme his parents. His devotion to Grace also reveals his way of showing love and giving Grace a family that she never enjoyed.

Grace and Mason try to help Marcus to transit who was about to clock 18 years. Jayden’s emotions are felt, but humor allows the audience to continue their investment in the film. Jayden’s bravado depicts a wounded girl and Grace's intervention helps to reach out to her and is able to share their tumultuous childhood encounters. Nate is used as a comic relief character. Being a newcomer Nate is depicted to follow the rules. Grace directs him to ensure there is a safe environment to guarantee the safety of children (Cretton, 2014).

The introduction of Nate also helps the audience understand the film by asking the right questions. For example, he wondered why there were constant fights. Ideally, the construction of the characters ensures there is sufficient exposition.  Nate refuses to jump-rope with the two little girls. This indicates his maturity and his role as a relief comic character. Additionally, Nate washes his face after Jayden spits in his face. Nate tries to join in with the group by rapping (“you all tried to play hate”).

 Arguably, Nate’s attempts at bonding come off as humorous, but his actions are also realistic for a new employee who may not yet know the best way to approach these young adults. Further, Nate is allowed to redeem himself—and not just be a figure of mockery by returning Sammy’s doll. Hope for Characters is evident in the film. The creation is based on how the story develops. For example, Grace and Mason support teenagers as they transit to adulthood. Grace was abused in her childhood and coped by pushing people away, but the end of the film suggests she is learning to share her feelings.

The sharing of Grace about her pasts displays her readiness to accept reality and depart the denial state. For example, as a healing process, Grace sees a therapist. Further, Grace finally opens up to Mason and decides to keep her baby. Grace’s healing is realistic because she has started to see a therapist and has started to talk, but she still has a long road ahead of her. Grace’s father is getting out of prison, which could still cause future trauma in her life. Marcus attempts suicide, but at the end of the film he has moved on from the facility.

 Marcus has a new girlfriend. This indicates transition and readiness to be responsible in life. Mason tells his co-workers about seeing Marcus, which happens off-screen. Marcus being off-screen is realistic because it supports the idea that many young adults will come and go through the short-term facility and through the lives of its workers (Cretton, 2014). Conclusively, the film elicits emotions. The encounters of the teenagers cover the challenges every person undergoes in their lives.

It is imperative that issues are addressed amicably without opting for violence.  The secrets in most lives may be brought into the limelight to ensure there is harmony. Grace's life experience of an abusive father was bound to be revealed given the other issues other teenagers were facing. Mason’s personality brings humor to the film, even during tense moments. Nate is used for comic effect as he slowly starts to bond with the young adults at the facility. Grace’s future is not a storybook ending, but she is starting to confront the abuse from her childhood.