Watch Growing Up Vegas

Growing Up Vegas is a coming-of-age film directed by filmmaker Jeremy Settles, which stars Amber Hamilton Russo, Ellis Davis, and Renata Green-Gaber. This independent drama film takes place in a small, depressed Nevada town in the 1980s. The movie follows the story of three teenagers - Sammy, Brendan, and Jenn - from different backgrounds who each cope with their own struggles in life. Sammy, played by Russo, is a shy and introverted girl who dreams of escaping her hometown of Las Vegas and starting a new life. Brendan, played by Davis, is a troubled teen who struggles with drug addiction and feelings of loneliness. On the other hand, Jenn, played by Green-Gaber, is a popular and outgoing cheerleader who must grapple with her father's infidelity and her mother's mental illness.

As the trio navigates through their adolescent years in Las Vegas, they each learn valuable lessons about trust, the importance of family, and the consequences of their actions. Together, they face obstacles such as economic hardship, drug addiction, and mental health issues that are common among teenagers.

The film offers a unique and accurate portrayal of the Reagan era and the rough streets of Vegas during the 80s. The audience is given insight into the drug epidemic that plagued the city and the lives of those who could not escape its effects. Jeremy Settles beautifully captures the atmosphere of the time, and the illusory promise of the American Dream to the boys and girls who are born in these circumstances.

The acting of the lead characters stands out in the movie. Amber Hamilton Russo delivers an authentic portrayal of a shy and introverted teenager, who is struggling to come out of her shell. Ellis Davis is convincing as the troubled and drug-addicted Brendan, while Renata Green-Gaber brings the daily struggles of a teenage girl in a broken family to the fore.

The film's cinematography is another impressive aspect, ranging from the standard smoky bar scenes to the neon-lit street corners of the city. The close-up shots of the actors reveal their emotions brilliantly, and the use of lighting and sound helps to create the desired atmosphere in every scene.

Finally, the film’s soundtrack is filled with classic 80s tunes, such as New Order's 'Blue Monday,' as well as synthesizer-driven music that is evocative of the time period. The music adds to the atmosphere of Las Vegas in the 80s, and captures the feeling of the era and the setting.

In conclusion, Growing Up Vegas is a touching independent drama film that is able to explore serious issues with a poignant delicacy. The story of three teenagers grappling with the difficult reality of growing up hits all the right notes. The film's bleak and realistic portrayal of life in a struggling, middle-class community makes for a moving coming-of-age tale that resonates with audiences.