10½ (aka Dix et Demi) (2010) Eng Subs.mp4

Tommy is from a broken home, a thorn in the side of social services. He is short-fused, violent, inappropriately sexualised and gets sent to (what we in the UK call) a secure unit, or locked children's home, for assessment.

The question posed is whether young Tommy is a hopeless psychopath in the making or whether he can respond to the professional help from the well-intentioned but overstretched staff at the unit.

This harrowing but tenderly moving Canadian film doesn't really answer the question but is well worth watching for its masterful direction and brilliant acting by the principal players.

Be warned that this is not an easy film to watch and contains violent scenes from the outset and strong language throughout.