Swimming Upstream

Running time: N/A

World Premiere The point in life when you discover the world is not 'black & white' is pivotal. For Morris, the quest to understand the 'shades of gray' happened when he was about seventeen years old. Morris' family is certainly not a perfect one. While growing up, Morris faced obstacles most youngsters only read about. His mother died of cancer, and it is possible his father assisted his wife's death to spare her the pain of her last agonizing moments. Morris is still knotted with doubts about his father's innocence or guilt. The gossip surrounding his family rivals the headlines of a supermarket tabloid. Despite his troubled history, young Morris is filled with bright visions of his future. He's fallen in love with perky classmate, Julie Sutton. His best friend, Teddy Benevides provides support and frequent comic relief. His grades are admirable and his English Lit teacher, Mrs. Goldfarb, has lavished praise on his creative writing efforts, hinting Morris has talent as a serious writer. Set in a picturesque Rhode Island community, Swimming Upstream captures the bouncing energy of youthful expectations, the drama of a son trying to win his father's affection, and the excitement and passion of young lovers seeking their place in the universe. Reviewed by Al Owens