Open

This film proved to be an unexpected gem. Initially drawn to the movie by the sight of Jeremy London, famed for his role in "Mallrats," donning a wig and wielding a guitar, my curiosity was piqued. This intrigue was not in vain, as "Open" turned out to be a killer movie with equally killer songs.

The film tells the story of a woman struggling in her marriage, who becomes enamored with a former teen idol, portrayed compellingly by London. His character, once a celebrated figure, has seen better days in the industry, adding a layer of depth to the narrative. The standout feature of this film is its clever use of hallucinatory sequences where the protagonist imagines herself as the frontwoman of an 80's New Wave Band. These moments are not only visually stunning but also serve as powerful metaphors for her internal struggles and aspirations.

Jeremy London delivers what might be the performance of his career in this film. While I have always admired his work in "Mallrats" and am still hopeful for a "Mallrats 2," his portrayal in "Open" brings a new level of depth and nuance. The film itself is a delightful blend of drama, romance, and a nostalgic journey through the music of a bygone era. It's an emotional ride, with the music and visuals complementing the storyline beautifully, making Open not just a movie but an experience. For anyone looking for a film that combines great acting, an engaging story, and memorable music, Open is a must-watch.

Open, directed by Miles Doleac in 2023, weaves an intriguing tale of a woman in a failing marriage who finds herself drawn to a former teen heartthrob, fallen from the spotlight. The film stands out with its imaginative use of hallucinations, where the protagonist envisions herself as the leader of an 80's New Wave Band. These sequences are not only visually captivating but also symbolize her escape from reality and her journey towards empowerment.

Doleac's direction skillfully balances the fantastical elements with the emotional struggles of the characters. The performances are compelling, with the actors bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. Their exploration of love, self-discovery, and redemption is both sincere and poignant. The film's visual flair, particularly in the band sequences, is a vibrant homage to the 80's, complemented by a carefully chosen soundtrack that enhances the storytelling.

In conclusion, Open is a unique and engaging film that combines drama, romance, and a nostalgic musical backdrop. It impressively blends imaginative storytelling with strong performances, making it a thought-provoking and entertaining experience. This film is not just about entertainment; it's an invitation to reflect on self-discovery and the timeless influence of music.

Early on in this film, lead character, Kristina (the wonderful Lindsay Anne Williams) muses about what it means to be normal. It's a question that the film forces audiences to wrestle with throughout as director Doleac and his team fully embrace the weird, bold, outside-the-box, at times, positively wild, both from a story and style perspective. And it totally works because everyone is committed to it fully, especially the game cast, all of whom deliver top-tier performances, with Williams and Jeremy London, as ex-TV icon Erik, whose "star has dimmed" considerably, delivering particularly compelling work. But Doleac as husband, Robert and Elena Sanchez, Emma have great scenes together and excellent chemistry and Yohance Myles shows up late as Erik's agent and nearly steals the show.

Doleac's casting game is strong here, even William Forsythe, as a crusty, wise-cracking police captain (and Emma's dad) is in on the fun. And, yes, it's a musical! But not that kinda musical. The MTV-style music videos that populate the narrative represent Kristina's inner monologue as she struggles to navigate a personal tragedy, unfulfilled childhood dreams, a struggling marriage, a decision to "open" said marriage in hopes of saving it, and her new relationship with Erik, which turns out to complicated. The songs are tongue-in-cheek (but thoroughly catchy, enjoyable, and, on occasion, riotously funny) and the videos embrace that trend of the 80's where every video seems to have been shot in a nebulous void space with lots of fog, the occasional actor in an animal costume and cheesy effects.

The fictional band is made up of the people in Kristina's real life, including Erik, Robert, Emma and more ... now clad in copious make-up, wigs, and lots of 80's-inspired vinyl, leather and such. Yes, OPEN is anything but "normal" in cinematic terms and that's what makes it absolutely worth a watch.

Jeremy London's resurgence is in full swing! Best known for his roles in the nineties, like Mallrats and Party of Five, he now shines as Erik LeRoux, even performing his own songs! His portrayal is a dynamic mix of charisma, charm, humor, and wild unpredictability. This performance, possibly his finest, is a testament to both his talent and Doleac's skilled direction. The screenplay by Doleac and Williams masterfully balances creativity and humor with touching explorations of marriage, unfulfilled dreams, and family dynamics. Imagine a fusion of Noah Baumbach and Richard Linklater's styles, mixed with the energy of MTV music videos - it's a highly entertaining blend. As for its genre, it's hard to pin down - it's a bit of everything. Just dive in and embrace the experience.

The film captivates from the outset, striking a perfect balance between light-hearted fun and meaningful narrative. Its unique charm lies in its ability to evoke a range of emotions, from joy to poignant reflection.

The music in Open is a standout feature. Not only does the soundtrack perfectly complement the film's tone, but the music videos are also a visual treat, adding an extra layer of creativity and engagement. These elements work harmoniously to enhance the storytelling, making the movie a memorable experience.

Lindsay Anne Williams and Jeremy London shine in their roles, bringing authenticity and depth to their characters. Their performances are a testament to their talent, contributing significantly to the film's overall impact.

Miles Doleac's direction deserves special mention. His vision for Open is evident in every scene, showcasing his skill as a filmmaker. The way he blends different elements - from music to narrative - is nothing short of remarkable. It's a testament to his ability to create a film that's not just entertaining but also resonant.

It's a brilliant showcase of talent, both in front of and behind the camera. The urge to seek out its soundtrack immediately after watching is a sign of its lasting impact and the strong impression it leaves. Congratulations to Miles Doleac and his team for crafting a film that stands out in today's cinematic landscape.