Even though the movie had its moments and every once in a while it would shine but, it was hard to connect with the characters the way one might connect with movies in this genre. The problem with Simon was lack of parenting which in its own way reflected on the "sister". Somehow it was easier for Simon to click and relate with total strangers rather than try to repair a damaged relationship with his "sister". At points the movie didn't advance as quickly as it should have and there were too many scenes with Simon stealing ski equipment and stashing them somewhere. The reason for stealing and cheating and lying became obvious in the first few scenes in the beginning. Everything was done out of necessity and there was no reason to emphasis on that issue. Instead it needed to built Simon's character and his twisted and strange relationship with his "sister". Close to the end of the movie is the only time when we hear about the reality behind their relationship and it is a tad too late to break the mold and reinvent Simon and his "sister". Even though the movie tries to show it is the love Simon has for his "sister" that drives him to steal and cheat but it comes short of delivering it and it goes the opposite direction to show Simon as a provider for their little family. The only time we see the real Simon is at the final scenes when he is all alone and desperate and has no where to go. That is when we see a helpless child with a big responsibility and secret on his shoulders. The movie tries to solve the problem at the very last scene with Simon in one car and the "sister" in another car while passing each other hoping this will put the viewers at ease that things are getting better but, unfortunately the fact that the cars are traveling in the opposite directions defies the happy ending. There is a gap, a wedge between Simon and "sister", a gap so deep that prevents them to admit who and what they are for each other.

My Movie Rating: 6 / 10