Since 1992
Print and digital marketing
By Bill Van Tassel and Maria Holloway
MEXICO – The occasional movie reviews that are included in many of Turner Publishing’s newspapers are the work of Lucas Allen from Mexico, Maine. Allen began doing movie reviews while attending Meroby Elementary School in Rumford. The Mountain Valley High School graduate credits the development of his critical writing skills to some of his teachers and his parents who were able to help him work with, and beyond, his limitations from autism.
It was around 10 years ago that Allen and his father began approaching the daily papers that might have an interest in running a movie review column. They experienced some rejections, but were able to interest Turner Publishing’s Western Maine Foothills publication. The Country Courier at that time was a monthly – now bi-monthly – local publication beginning its monthly circulation in 1992, providing good news and superior customer service to the communities and businesses of Turner, Leeds, Greene, and Monmouth, Maine.
A reader can tell by his reviews that he thoroughly researches his topic. “I read the plots, some reviews and watch the marketing of trailers and television spots,” he said. Allen limits himself to reading just one positive review so any negative comments do not shade his perspective when he goes to see the film himself. He finds “the marketing a most interesting part of the research” because of the way the producer tries to sell the final product to the audience.
Allen views the movie on a Friday night and spends the weekend working on his review. He makes an outline before moving on to constructing an introduction. Next, the plot is discussed with a couple of paragraphs. He finishes the review with his opinions on the movie’s acting, writing and directing followed by a concluding paragraph. If necessary, he will also talk about any special effects and action in the film, animated or otherwise.
His most recent review was the “LEGO Batman Movie.” Here ‘s an excerpt from his very comprehensive review: “Another important factor is how much more tender and genuine are the story’s themes of family and teamwork. Whenever the movie takes a break from the action, it takes the time to show Batman’s nicer side and have him face his fears and regrets. It also applies a brilliant send-up of romantic comedies when The Joker wants him to express his ‘hatred’ for him. The comedy and drama aspects help keep everything else in balance.”
Along with continuing to improve his writing skills, Allen has an aspiration to work as an actor in either stage or screen. “I may try expanding my writing skills from my current job into either novel writing or screenplays,” he told Turner Publishing. He also stated that he would like to try reviewing plays if he can find the time.
His father, Rich Allen who works for Franklin Savings Bank/Rumford branch, told Turner Publishing, “Lucas was always interested in the arts and entertainment industry. He was very active in his high school drama club and acted in several plays. This love of the arts and entertainment followed him into his adult life. His research of upcoming movie releases is unmatched and his unique writing style makes it a pleasure to read his work. I am very proud of Lucas and hope his readership will continue to grow and enjoy his writing as much as I do.”
Lucas Allen estimates he’s seen about a thousand movies in his lifetime. His favorite is Steven Spielberg’s “Jaws.” He calls Spielberg “a master” and enjoyed how Spielberg directed the characters and action. Allen said, “Most importantly, having it [the movie] take place at a New England beachside reminds me of all the times when I was young visiting Maine beaches. There’s something about it that had a natural effect on me.”
Allen’s favorite actor is Jim Carrey, although Carrey’s films are not among his Top Ten choices of all time. The Top Ten Allen films include many of those in his favorite genre of action/science fiction. Among the 10 are: “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” “Lord of the Rings Trilogy,” “Speed,” “Star Wars” saga and of course “Jaws.”
