Twelve and Holding 2006

Three pre-adolescents, brimming with innocence and an eagerness to navigate the signals of life, plunge headfirst into a world of monstrous loneliness amidst the incandescent fire that consumes their early purity. This film weaves together three distinct yet intertwined narratives. The primary focus revolves around twelve-year-old twins: Rudy, the bold and self-assured brother, and Jacob, who often finds solace in his shyness and fearfulness.

On a fateful night, Rudy joins his friend Leonard “Lenny” in their cherished treehouse, where they plot revenge against their tormentors, Kenny and Jeff. However, their plan takes a tragic turn when they decide to burn down the treehouse, unaware that the two boys are trapped inside. This terrible mishap leads to Rudy’s untimely demise, while Lenny is sent to the hospital. In the wake of this tragedy, Jacob, the surviving twin, embarks on a poignant journey, grappling with the loss of his brother and slowly finding the courage to confront those responsible for the accident.

The second storyline unfolds with Lenny waking up in the hospital, faced with the harsh reality of having lost his ability to taste. The medical staff encourages him to adopt a healthier diet, which coincides with advice from his school sports coach. This marks the beginning of Lenny’s transformation, as he dedicates himself to improving his health and hopes to inspire his mother to do the same.

The third narrative centers around Malee, a mutual friend of Jacob, Lenny, and the late Rudy. Attending Rudy’s funeral leaves a profound mark on her, leading her to visit her mother’s psychotherapy office. There, she encounters Gus Maitland, a patient her mother counsels, and finds herself developing feelings for him. Yet, as her longing for a deeper connection grows, she faces the painful truth of unrequited love when he rejects her romantic advances.

Through these intertwining tales, the film captures the essence of childhood innocence shattered by tragedy, the challenge of confronting pain, and the pursuit of growth and healing amidst overwhelming grief and loneliness.