Richard Linklater’s new film Boyhood was shot over the course of 12 years. It follows the life of a boy from age 5 to 18. The film stars Patricia Arquette as the mother, and Ethan Hawke as the father, of Mason. I found the film to be surprisingly realistic in it’s portrayal of a boy growing up, and his relationships with family and friends. I was whisked along for the entire 3 hour film, and felt a real empathy for Mason’s character, as well as his sister and parents. There was something wonderful and freeing about watching the characters in the film grow older, and time lapse in a real way. It was completely natural. There was drama, but somehow the film managed not to be overly sentimental. I absolutely loved the last scene, and don’t want to give too much away. It was a great film and you should see it in the theater if you can.