Screenplay by Jay Paul Deratany
Directed by Youssef Delara
When high-profile corporate lawyer Michael Trainer (Matthew Modine) has a chance encounter with troubled former foster youth Jamal Randolph (Shane Paul McGhie), Trainer ends up being appointed to the young man’s civil case against a for-profit foster care agency.
The film is written by Chicago-based lawyer Jay Paul Deratany who has specialized in malpractice and personal injury cases similar to the one portrayed in this film.
Not only does the film include big-name actors like Modine and Louis Gossett Jr., playing Judge George Taylor, but former basketball superstar Shaquille O’Neal signed on as executive producer.
“Foster Boy” is a heart-wrenching film that highlights some of the ugliest parts of the foster care system in a realistic manner. It also shows the importance of having caring adults in a child’s corner and the long-term impacts of trauma. Those involved in the foster care system will most likely relate to much of the film and at the film’s conclusion will have a sense that justice has been served. “Foster Boy” is definitely a must-watch.
— Reviewed by Kim Phagan-Hansel
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