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Emery gives Kristian a laid-back likability that disarms everyone, which helps him continually undermine audience expectations. There's a sense that he likes the people he meets and fools around with, and even has a soft spot for those he kills. It's an unnerving, smiley performance that frequently takes us by surprise. The surrounding ensemble cast emerges vividly in individual scenes, but are never allowed to add much in the way of emotional textures.

Indeed, this is a film you watch from a safe distance, never really getting involved or being moved by anything. There's a sense that Kristian is punishing all of these people for their unashamed sexual openness, although it's perhaps more interesting to see him as merely nihilistic, feeling nothing even as he makes those around him feel everything. An ironic twist in the final act is perhaps a cheap shot, but it also gives the audience some earthy satisfaction.

themes, language, violence, sexuality

20.Jun.24

Performances are nicely grounded, as it were, believable even when things begin to feel rather corny. Rosenmeyer is a likeable lead, revealing an observant sense of humour once Ben starts emerging from his funk. He connects warmly to the people around him, including Sarah's friend Wendy (Grace) and her husband Roger (Ramamurthy). And Raci has terrific presence as Mealworm, offering a masterclass in understated scene-stealing.

While the heightened premise exaggerates the film's themes to comical effect, the underlying emotion remains vivid. Obviously, focusing on this absurd task distracts Ben from his feelings, although his mental stability becomes somewhat frightening. The film also taps into ideas about how easily we fall into ruts that prevent us from solving the important things in our lives. And sometimes this might require a complete system reset simply to regain our momentum. As Wendy says, "Someday, you'll stop trying to fly."

themes, language

2.Jul.24

Intriguingly, this circular saga is as much about Trevor and Dani as it is about Aaron, so all three characters find layers of resonance. Germaine gives Aaron a terrific sense of curiosity, enjoying the moment but also keeping an eye out for something more meaningful. Aaron's journey gives the film its heart. Leyva's Trevor is even more textured, evoking hard emotions as he conceals a troubled past. And as Dani, Ortiz fills scenes with bristling energy that's irresistible.

Thankfully, the film never becomes preachy as the plot takes turns that are provocative and thoughtful, although there's a timidity in the camerawork that prevents the bedroom scenes from feeling very sexy. Instead, they are designed to portray levels of intimacy between people who are still trying to sort out their own issues. In a key moment, Dani asks Aaron what would happen if a guy actually liked him back. Indeed, the film reminds us that everyone's a little messed up.

themes, language, sexuality

22.Jun.24