Just Say Goodbye

First I cannot believe that this incredible movie was made for just under $15,000. It was highly professional with excellent direction, excellent screenplay with an intense storyline and subject matter of teen bullying and suicide. The dialogue was very smart. The score was first rate. As was the cinematography. I'm leaving the best for last, the two lead actors: MAX MacKENZIE and KATERINA EICHENBERGER made their characters very likable, sympathetic and interesting. I was rooting for both of them. So much so that it was good that I saw it at home, since I tended to address the screen with my feelings during many scenes.The ups and downs of this boy's life took an emotional toll on me. It really took me to heart. This movie really deserves to be seen by a wide audience.

Just Say Goodbye does an exception job tacking the troubling topic of teen suicide. The story is compelling and the writing is particularly good. In addition, Max MacKenzie shines in his portrayal of Jesse. The high quality of this movie is an astonishing feat on the part of its creators, given its tiny budget.

Within the first 5 minutes you know Just Say Goodbye isn't going to be your usual indie drama, this powerful and at times overwhelming portrayal of teenage friendship and suicide may well have been filmed on a shoestring budget but through a combination of heartfelt performances, well-written dialogue and surprisingly sophisticated cinematography, you're soon invested in the story and willing to forgive any of the technical shortcomings.

In terms of tone, Just Say Goodbye feels perfect, not only handling these difficult subjects with care, but also showing a different side to what we are usually shown, the character of Jesse feels fleshed out and nuanced, reminding the viewer that anyone could be harboring suicidal thoughts and it only takes something small to push them over the edge. For this, I have to give credit to not only the writer Layla O'Shea but also Max Mackenzie for his delicate performance.

Also impressing was Katerina Eichbenbeger, it was a surprise to see how few credits she has to her name, her skilled portrayal as Sarah not only felt real but also relatable, the effects of Jesse's failing mental health is plain to see and the full range of emotions that Sarah goes through was handled perfectly. I fully expect bigger things await Eichbenbeger in the future.

Given the films small budget, I'm willing to forgive the majority of the technical limitations, unfortunately, however, there were some problems with the sound that did distract me from enjoying the affected scenes, with some parts not feeling as clean as can be, while other parts feeling too much like ADR, however, given his relative inexperience as a filmmaker, I'd say Matt Walting handles the task extremely well,

Anchored by two excellent performances and strong writing, Just Say Goodbye is an impressive, gritty and powerful piece of indie-cinema that pulls no punches and stays with you long after your first viewing.

A story perfectly told in every aspect. Possibly one film you will never forget in this lifetime. I am grateful to have the honor to have been able to watch this screen gem while I am still in good health and of a sound mind.

Live life, treasure each day and shine always.

I absolutely loved this movie, people may complain about the acting and etc However, I feel as though people need to focus on the message of the movie which was very, very powerful and needed especially in the culture we're in today. I promise you won't be disappointed by this movie, it's one that should be shared with family, friends and even co-workers. Because we all never know what's on someone's mind or how they're feeling from day too day. Take out time and listen to the people around you, secrets hurt the person that's keeping them and even the more the person that knows about it. Learn to speak up and speak out - minutes count and so does a person's life. Great Movie!!