A culturally specific story is being told, but the film’s familiar structure helps to add a commonality for any viewer.

The climax feels a bit under-realized, but never less than genuine. More than anything else, Morris From America excels at conveying the inherent power of companionship in a largely indifferent world.

This understated, generous film quietly sneaks up on you.

This coming-of-age dramedy explores how the challenges of being young, black and misunderstood can be compounded in a foreign environment, but goes about it in a grounded, character-driven way that never smacks of manipulation or special pleading.

Chad Hartigan's film is especially perceptive about the effect of external influence on personal development.