paulijcalderon

In 2015 we were introduced to the wholesome duo of Edward and Jacob - Played by Dylan McKay and Ben Anderson - in a romantic comedy that carried a simple, yet valuable lesson to us all: To remember to be ourselves. Flashforward to eight years later and we find the buddies on the cusp of their 20's, grappling with important life choices - when suddenly they are drafted in by the FBI to spy on Jacob's mischievous new boss. From that point on hijinks ensue which leads to the guys having to learn to snowboard, outsmart shady dealers and still find time to go on dates.

With a runtime of 2 hours, this marks McKay's longest film to date, and he knows how to use that time well. In between the humorous interactions, the visual montages, he never forgets to focus on the heart of the film. Which is when the pace slows down and our two main characters breathe and speak their truth. The best comedies have emotion and McKay goes on a home run with his excited yet affectionate performance. Once again I too felt engaged in the lives of these guys and it moved me. Then in the next scene I'll find myself belly laughing. A strong recommendation for a Friday night watch with either your buddies or your loved ones. It's a film that speaks to our world of wanting to escape to our dreams and also to our world of responsible commitments. How do we navigate that as we continue on our journeys? Well, those are questions provoked here with kindness and care. Don't miss this one.

I needed that. As I stared at the rolling credits, it was noticeable that the lights were not being put back on. Darkness still surrounded me in an empty cinema. My mind steered away to reflect. Memories flashed before me. How my life was like years ago and how I've shaped as a person since then.

In times of despair, humanity endures. I'm reminded of my peers, my fellow friends, lifting each other up to achieve wonders. Hero movies are more than just hero movies. It's a constant gift. And that gift reminds me of how our imagination is beautiful. We all find our way to steer on our paths. The darkness surrounding me in this cinema did eventually disappear... and the light returned. As it always does... when we believe in each other. When we fight for the beauty of this world. The shadow is a passing cicle. These stories of good are the type that shape us.

Keep fighting the good fight. Continue to be your best selves everyone. Please, continue to create. We can achiece that awe.

A touching little tale with themes of artistry and a morale to fight for the expression of your unique voice. The diegesis, or the rules of the world the film is set in were delightfully creative. You can definitely see Stockholm as a location, but through the veil of Henrik Pilerud's eyes. As a director he adds a flare of surrealism. And I love those abstract, fantastical ideas. Why not have a Sweden where Trolls and magical beings exist? I for sure did the DiCaprio pointing thing to the screen many times throughout the watch. So happy to see many performers and places I know get their spotlight. Especially proud for my friend Nathalie portraying the character Mya. After a while I even forgot it was her since I was immersed in the story.

Many diamonds to cherish in this work of art. I'll never forget Mya finding friendship with the Stone Creature. Very touching. I recommend this to anyone who's pursuing to share their own visions to the screen. Perhaps you'll feel inspired to not let that story stay only a dream. Hope to see more independent artists get a chance to share their passion projects like this!