But a series of twists, bad decisions and an imaginary astronaut help transform the movie into a poignant exploration of violence and masculinity. The three male teen stars -- Christopher Meyer, Guillory and Christopher Jordan Wallace (son of Biggie Smalls) -- were brought to them by their casting director. More minor roles were filled by kids from around the Bay Area, plucked from youth groups and after school programs. (L to R) Christopher Meyer, Jahking Guillory and Christopher Jordan Wallace star in "Kicks." But that's exactly what they set out to do in making a film they hope will start a conversation about youth, violence, and what young boys are being taught about masculinity.

Source: CNN September 09, 2016 22:50 UTC