I Am the Cheese

Watch I Am the Cheese

  • PG
  • 1983
  • 1 hr 40 min
  • 5.8  (310)

I Am the Cheese is a suspenseful drama film from 1983, based on the novel by Robert Cormier. The movie tells the story of a young boy named Adam Farmer, played by Robert MacNaughton, who appears to live a normal life with his loving family in a small town. However, things are not what they seem, and Adam's life takes a dark turn after he discovers that his parents have been hiding a secret from him.

The film opens with Adam riding his bicycle to a nearby city to visit his father in a hospital. As he travels, he becomes increasingly anxious and paranoid, feeling that he is being watched and followed. When he arrives at the hospital, he is denied access to his father, and instead speaks with a reporter who seems to know more about his life than he should. The encounter leaves Adam feeling more confused and frightened than ever.

As the story unfolds, we see flashbacks to Adam's life before his trip to the hospital. It becomes clear that his family is not what it seems, and that they may be involved in something dangerous. Adam's father, played by Don Murray, is a mysterious figure who seems to be involved in both the government and organized crime. Adam's mother, played by Hope Lange, is distant and uncommunicative, leaving Adam feeling isolated and alone.

We also learn that Adam has been struggling with his memory and identity. He has been seeing a therapist, played by Cynthia Nixon, who is trying to help him unlock the secrets of his past. As Adam delves deeper into his memories, he discovers that his life has been a lie, and that his parents have been using him as a pawn in their schemes.

The tension in the film builds as Adam's paranoia and fear grow, and he becomes more determined to uncover the truth about his past. He travels back to his hometown, where he encounters old friends and memories that add to his confusion. He also meets a young girl, played by Kari Matchett, who offers him some comfort and support.

The film is shot in a claustrophobic style, with tight close-ups and dark lighting that creates a sense of dread and unease. The score, by Michael Small, is haunting and atmospheric, adding to the film's sense of foreboding. The performances are strong across the board, with MacNaughton in particular delivering a nuanced and powerful portrayal of a young man struggling to find his place in a world that seems to be against him.

I Am the Cheese is a gripping and unsettling film that explores themes of identity, memory, and the power of the state. It’s a movie that stays with you long after the credits roll, leaving you with a sense of unease and a desire to uncover your own hidden truths. If you enjoy psychological thrillers and thought-provoking dramas, then I Am the Cheese is definitely worth a watch.

I Am the Cheese
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Description
  • Release Date
    1983
  • MPAA Rating
    PG
  • Runtime
    1 hr 40 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    5.8  (310)
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