Holden On – A remarkable film about a teen’s struggle with mental illness
No longer your average boy-next-door, Holden Layfield weaves audiences through his harrowing tale in this film set in the early 1990s. After succumbing to a secret battle with mental illness, Holden evolves from a beloved, small town Georgia football player to a lost, self-medicating prophet. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Samantha M. comments, “I don’t remember the last time I laughed and cried within minutes of each other…This film helped my heart grow bigger and make me more empathetic towards others.” See her full review.
Holden On
By Samantha Marcus, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 17
This exceptional film brought out all of my emotions, which is why it is one of my new favorites. I don’t remember the last time I laughed and cried within minutes of each other. I’m glad I was able to express my emotions, because that is what makes me relate to a film. This film helped my heart grow bigger and make me more empathetic towards others.
Based on a true story, Holden On is about a 17-year-old boy named Holden Layfield, who lives in a small town in Georgia and
is a star athlete. Playing football like a professional, Layfield receives multiple college scholarships and is ready to begin a new chapter in his life. But, he has a big secret: he is battling a mental illness. Over a two year period, Layfield tries to keep his illness to himself and transforms from a fantastic football player to a prophet who believes he can save the world.
Matthew Fahey portrays Holden in a remarkable fashion. He acts very humble, which illustrates how kind-hearted Holden truly is. However, because of his humility, it is difficult for Holden’s family to decipher his thoughts. Fahey makes you believe that Holden is completely fine and, because he isn’t, it makes the plot even
more intriguing. Steve Ellis’ portrayal of Zinte, Holden’s best friend, is humorous. Zinte truly cares about Holden and it is evident through their five year friendship. Ellis characterizes Zinte as comical, joking around with him to cheer him up. But, he is unaware of Holden’s issue. These lead actors left me on the edge of my seat for the entire film.
I love the music in this film because which is from the 80s, opening with “It’s the End of the World” by R.E.M. The film is set in the 90s, but the music is from an older era and includes bands such as Suzie Rose and Tommy McCarthy. My favorite parts of the film are when Holden is in a
situation and the camera shifts towards his point of view. For example, Holden tackles another team player on the football field before the game begins. The camera cuts to Holden’s thoughts, displaying a visual of what is going on in his brain. I enjoyed how Holden narrates his thoughts when this occurs, because I could empathize more with him.
The message of this film is that you are not alone, even if you’re battling mental illness. Talk to your friends, family or a professional about your feelings, because there is someone who is always willing to help. Mental illness is common and not many people are aware of the help available to those who are suffering. That a movie has been created to address the issue touches my heart. 
Be forewarned that Holden resorts to drugs to cope with his illness yet, this film has such an impactful message that I wish every kid could see it. We can all help those who are dealing with mental illness. I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 16 to 18 as well as adults. Go to Iamholdenon.org to read about the nationwide movement supporting treating mental illness through artistic expression. Also, catch this film when it comes out June 7, 2017. It is one that you don’t want to miss.
