Because much of what follows might sound like a takedown, let me state up front that I entirely agree with your very positive review of "Good Luck, Leo Grande," There is so much that is genuine and fresh in this film, but—as so often happens with everything from blockbusters to indie darlings these days—when the timer goes off at the two-thirds mark, the Big Dramatic Reversal must occur. The points of dramatic tension in this movie don't just feel forced, they're a violation--almost a betrayal of the viewer's trust. It's funny: we are always wishing that filmmakers took more risks, but these days, it's not so hard to challenge norms when it comes to premises or themes. The line that is hardest to transgress really is a formal or conceptual barrier. Whatever else a screenwriter might do, the ideal contours of the story must be followed. A tale like the one told in "Goodbye, Leo Grande" begs for a structure and narrative outcome that challenges the established order. Once upon a time, we looked to independent cinema to deliver these alternative visions. "She's Gotta Have It" is an apposite example of a film that very deliberately thwarts the viewer's desire for a convenient resolution. Is it just me, or is it the case that today even indie films feel like their narratives are mapped out by AI? Okay, enough lecturing and hand-wringing. I will close by singing the praises of Daryl McCormack (lead actor) and Sophie Hyde (director). While it's totally right and fair to salute Emma Thompson's wonderful performance, in many respects McCormack has the trickier role to play here. The balance of intelligence, bravado and vulnerability he brings to the part is extraordinary. As for Hyde, she brilliantly uses screen language to give an arc to material that is, in essence, a filmed play. She knows exactly when to go in for a close-up or when to withhold a wide shot. She masterfully uses glimpses and focus shifts to punctuate scenes and divide acts. Can't wait to see more from both McCormick and Hyde. As always, thanks for drawing our attention to good stuff!
Because much of what follows might sound like a takedown, let me state up front that I entirely agree with your very positive review of "Good Luck, Leo Grande," There is so much that is genuine and fresh in this film, but—as so often happens with everything from blockbusters to indie darlings these days—when the timer goes off at the two-thirds mark, the Big Dramatic Reversal must occur. The points of dramatic tension in this movie don't just feel forced, they're a violation--almost a betrayal of the viewer's trust. It's funny: we are always wishing that filmmakers took more risks, but these days, it's not so hard to challenge norms when it comes to premises or themes. The line that is hardest to transgress really is a formal or conceptual barrier. Whatever else a screenwriter might do, the ideal contours of the story must be followed. A tale like the one told in "Goodbye, Leo Grande" begs for a structure and narrative outcome that challenges the established order. Once upon a time, we looked to independent cinema to deliver these alternative visions. "She's Gotta Have It" is an apposite example of a film that very deliberately thwarts the viewer's desire for a convenient resolution. Is it just me, or is it the case that today even indie films feel like their narratives are mapped out by AI? Okay, enough lecturing and hand-wringing. I will close by singing the praises of Daryl McCormack (lead actor) and Sophie Hyde (director). While it's totally right and fair to salute Emma Thompson's wonderful performance, in many respects McCormack has the trickier role to play here. The balance of intelligence, bravado and vulnerability he brings to the part is extraordinary. As for Hyde, she brilliantly uses screen language to give an arc to material that is, in essence, a filmed play. She knows exactly when to go in for a close-up or when to withhold a wide shot. She masterfully uses glimpses and focus shifts to punctuate scenes and divide acts. Can't wait to see more from both McCormick and Hyde. As always, thanks for drawing our attention to good stuff!