THE AGGRESSIVES (2005)

Cheon Jeong-Myeong (star of the South Korean version of Hansel & Gretel and with one of the most open, expressive faces in film) stars in The Aggressives as So-yo, a teen abandoned by his parents when they're forced to leave South Korea to evade criminal prosecution (it's never made 100% clear why).  Alone and bored and with an interest in (and mild talent for) in-line skating, So-yo finds a new group of friends in the sport, and not only develops his skills but also forges a bond with the leader of the pack, Moggy (Kim Kang-woo), who along with his buddy that formed the group of skates is having trouble coming to terms with the fact he's getting old enough to put this "hobby" behind if he's to face the real, adult world.  Part personal journey, part coming-of-age story, part sports tale, The Aggressives - while not the perfect film - is a strong, well-acted, touching story of friendship ... and of the difficulty inherent in letting go of a dream that may never see reality. (not rated)  B