Butter limits itself to an artificial set-up and a superficial level of storytelling, more afterschool special than feature film.

For all its ache and churning emotions, “Butter” winds up being little more than a meager “Afterschool Special.”

Ultimately, it is, like its conflicted hero, sweet and likable, and you wish it well.

A film that takes a sensitive rather than exploitive look at bullying. Alex Kersting develops real empathy and is aided by some carefully balanced supporting work from Mira Sorvino and Mykelti Williamson.