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Rated PG-13 for thematic elements and some violent images; 107 minutes; opening today at area theaters.
Screenwriter James Redford (Robert's son, and a chip off the block) makes an auspicious directing debut with this coming-of-age drama. In 1950s Tucson, orphaned Eddie (Ryan Merriman) is left by his absentee uncle (Stanley Tucci) in the care of the family ranch's caretakers (Ruben Blades and Dana Delany). Eddie tries to deal with his parents' death and with the casual racism aimed at his foster-parents and at the girl, Francesca (Paula Garces), who's sweet on him. Redford shows his love for the West and a talent for gently handling young actors. Some melodramatic flourishes aside, "Spin" is a small gem worth uncovering.
