King Jack is a 2015 coming-of-age drama written and directed by Felix Thompson, marking his feature debut. The film takes a raw and intimate look at adolescence, bullying, and family, all set in a modest, lower-middle-class American town. It’s gritty, heartfelt, and deeply personal, capturing the vulnerability and toughness of teenage life.
Detailed Summary
Introduction: Meet Jack
The story centers around Jack (Charlie Plummer), a rebellious 15-year-old boy with a penchant for getting into trouble. Jack lives in a run-down town with his mother and older brother Tom. The absence of a father figure and lack of direction have turned Jack into a bitter and angry teenager. His school life is equally bleak—he’s constantly bullied by an older kid named Shane and his cronies.
Jack is no angel. He’s got a smart mouth, paints vulgar graffiti, and doesn’t shy away from throwing punches. But under the rough exterior lies a boy struggling with loneliness, rejection, and a desperate need for someone to believe in him.
The Arrival of Ben
Jack’s already turbulent life takes an unexpected turn when his cousin Ben (Cory Nichols) comes to stay with them for the weekend. Ben is younger, more sensitive, and just as much an outsider. At first, Jack is resentful—why should he be stuck babysitting this quiet, soft-spoken kid?
However, as the weekend progresses, Jack slowly starts to connect with Ben. What begins as reluctance transforms into a brotherly bond, with Jack showing Ben how to navigate his harsh world. The presence of Ben becomes a mirror for Jack—forcing him to see his own pain and the kind of person he wants to become.
Confrontations and Choices
Jack’s feud with Shane escalates throughout the film. A fight breaks out that leaves Jack humiliated, and he begins to spiral. The situation peaks when Shane and his gang track down Jack and Ben, cornering them in a junkyard. Instead of running, Jack finally stands his ground. It’s the film’s most intense moment, charged with the fear and courage of a boy refusing to be a victim any longer.
His confrontation with Shane doesn’t end in a cinematic knockout. Instead, Jack survives, bloodied but unbroken. It’s a metaphorical victory more than a physical one.
Movie Ending
In the final scenes, Jack and Ben return home after the showdown with Shane. Jack is battered and bruised, but something inside him has shifted. He’s no longer just a reckless kid lashing out at the world—he’s taken responsibility, protected someone else, and faced his fears head-on.
Ben prepares to leave, and the cousins share a heartfelt goodbye. Their bond is genuine now. Jack, though still flawed and uncertain, is visibly changed. The last image of him quietly sitting with a hint of calm and self-acceptance on his face signals that he might finally be on the path to healing.
The film ends without overexplaining. There’s no dramatic wrap-up or fairytale redemption. Instead, it offers a slice-of-life conclusion that feels honest: life is still messy, but Jack is starting to figure it out.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, King Jack does not feature any post-credits scenes. Once the film ends, it’s truly over—consistent with its grounded, no-frills storytelling style.
Type of Movie
King Jack is a coming-of-age drama with elements of indie realism and family dynamics. It’s emotionally raw, with minimalistic cinematography and naturalistic performances that make it feel like a deeply personal story rather than a polished Hollywood production.
Cast
- Charlie Plummer as Jack
- Cory Nichols as Ben
- Christian Madsen as Tom (Jack’s older brother)
- Danny Flaherty as Shane (the bully)
- Chloe Levine as Holly
Film Music and Composer
The film’s music is composed by Aaron and Bryce Dessner, best known for their work with the indie rock band The National. Their score is minimalistic but deeply emotive, enhancing the film’s intimate tone. The music often lingers quietly in the background, reinforcing the emotional weight of Jack’s journey.
Filming Locations
King Jack was shot primarily in Hudson Valley, New York, using real neighborhoods and backyards to achieve its authentic, small-town American vibe. The naturalistic setting plays a crucial role in the storytelling—it mirrors Jack’s internal confinement and the sense of being trapped in a place with few opportunities.
Awards and Nominations
- Tribeca Film Festival (2015): Narrative Audience Award
- Nominated for several indie and regional awards for best first feature and breakout performances.
While it didn’t sweep mainstream award shows, the film earned critical praise and resonated particularly well with indie film circles.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- King Jack was Felix Thompson’s feature directorial debut. He wrote the script based on personal experiences and the emotional turbulence of adolescence.
- The film was shot in just 19 days, relying on a tight budget and a passionate team.
- Charlie Plummer’s performance was widely praised, leading to more prominent roles in later films (Lean on Pete, Looking for Alaska).
- The scenes between Jack and Ben were largely built on real-time chemistry, with minimal rehearsals to preserve a naturalistic dynamic.
Inspirations and References
King Jack draws inspiration from classic coming-of-age films like:
- Stand by Me (1986)
- The 400 Blows (1959)
- Mean Creek (2004)
It also echoes the storytelling of indie directors like Sean Baker and Kelly Reichardt, where emotional depth and realism take precedence over plot-driven spectacle.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
There are no widely known alternate endings or deleted scenes that change the narrative arc. However, it’s noted in interviews that some scenes involving Jack’s school life and backstory were cut for pacing reasons.
Book Adaptations and Differences
King Jack is not based on a book. It is an original screenplay written by Felix Thompson, grounded in personal memories and composite experiences from adolescence.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Jack and Ben bonding in the field while setting off fireworks.
- Jack confronting Shane in the junkyard, refusing to back down.
- The final farewell between Jack and Ben, filled with unspoken emotion.
- Jack quietly stitching up his wounds, symbolizing self-repair and growth.
Iconic Quotes
- Jack (to Ben): “You ever get so mad, you don’t even know what you’re mad at?”
- Ben: “You’re not bad. You just don’t think anyone’s watching.”
- Tom: “Sometimes, you just gotta take the hit and keep moving.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- Jack’s graffiti tags around the town are consistent with his emotional state—early ones are crude, but later ones seem more thoughtful.
- The film’s use of golden hour lighting during Jack and Ben’s bonding scenes subtly underscores moments of warmth and emotional openness.
- A drawing in Jack’s room hints at his childhood innocence, contrasting with his rebellious present self.
Trivia
- Charlie Plummer won several emerging actor awards after this role.
- The entire film was shot using handheld cameras to maintain intimacy and realism.
- The fireworks scene was filmed in one take, using live pyrotechnics on a limited budget.
- Felix Thompson had previously directed short films, but this was his first full-length feature.
Why Watch?
If you’re looking for a film that strips adolescence down to its rawest form—with all its pain, defiance, and rare moments of hope—King Jack delivers. It’s not flashy or fast-paced, but its emotional authenticity and grounded performances leave a lasting impact. Perfect for fans of indie cinema and character-driven storytelling.
Director’s Other Projects
- The Strange Ones (2011, short film – co-writer)
- King Jack is Felix Thompson’s most recognized work; he has since worked on screenwriting and TV development.
Recommended Films for Fans
- The Florida Project (2017)
- Lean on Pete (2017)
- Stand by Me (1986)
- Moonlight (2016)
- Short Term 12 (2013)
- Eighth Grade (2018)
