This Australian murder mystery, adapted from a novel, is set in a small town and features up-and-coming actors like Levi Miller and Angourie Rice. However, the film didn't quite live up to my expectations; it was merely passable. Initially, I wasn’t impressed because some aspects seemed illogical, even considering the perspective of a young character. While I don't fault the entire movie, the beginning felt overly deliberate and rushed into suspense. It’s presented as a children’s film about teenagers and a death investigation, but even the conclusion didn’t offer much satisfaction—though that might have just been my experience. I found myself searching for something to appreciate in the middle sections of the story, which primarily offered memorable characters and a compelling plot. The rest of the film failed to reach its full potential. It would make a good story for literature, but visually presenting everything needed more detail; it lacked depth, which would have made it a better movie. The events unfold during the holiday week between Christmas and New Year’s in a fictional Australian town called Corrigan. A young Charlie is approached by Jasper one night, and soon learns that Jasper's girlfriend has been murdered. They then begin to search for the killer and their motive before the authorities do. The following days are critical as fear grips the entire town. Secrets are revealed just prior to the film’s end. > -xX] You're just like her, your mother. You're peas in a pod, you two. [Xx- There were some tangential elements involving the Vietnam War and racism; Jasper Jones seemed to be Charlie’s imagination due to his mysterious appearances, though this didn’t last long. Nevertheless, the murder mystery remained central to the film. The ending felt reminiscent of films from the 60s and 70s, as did the film's timeline, specifically 1969. The locations were impressive, and the cinematography deserves recognition. I initially considered Jeffrey to be an underutilized or unnecessary character until the cricket match scene dedicated to him. Following that, his family’s situation added a nice touch to the narrative. Charlie’s family also faced marital problems and crises. As I said, the film had potential but wasn't fully realized. Some reviewers have compared it to classics like 'To Kill a Mockingbird' and 'Stand By Me,' but it seems too late for it to achieve that level of recognition. It was just above average; if released in the 80s or 90s, it could have been a standout film and significantly impacted Australian cinema. Despite the title, the story is narrated by Charlie, who develops an unexpected connection with Jasper Jones during an extreme situation—his first love. Beyond one terrible week, he also experiences a coming-of-age journey; it’s worth watching, but undoubtedly could have been better. I'm unsure whether most viewers will enjoy or dislike it, but it’s still watchable once. The film received nominations for six categories at the Australian Academy Awards in 2017, though it didn't win any—hopefully that won’t deter you from seeing it! _6/10_

Source on TMDB