I Like Movies

In excellent, low-key '90s-based rites-of-passage dramedy "I Like Movies" quirky (to almost 'on the spectrum' level) cinephile teen nerd Isaiah Lehtinen (off-the-scale good) dreams of NYU film school from his nondescript Canadian high school while being painfully condascending to those around him (like pal Percy Hynes White & mum Krista Bridges) before rather idolising Romina D'Ugo, his manager at the video-store job that he loves. Debut writer (and director) Chandler Levack EXCELS with his authentic script of genuine characters - all terrifically performed to give it the feel of "Clerks", but more 'real'. Stars should be born from this wonderful gem.

This movie had the title going for it. The storyline sounded interesting as well: back to the days of the video store, which only folks above 30 will probably remember.

More good: the dialogues were interesting as well, with many namedrops of classic movies from the past.

The characters were kinda interesting, but there the good news ended, because the actors were lacking in actor's chemistry. They for sure werent terrible actors, merely just not charismatic enough to carry this movie.

Half way through I began to get somewhat irritated by these actors, who usually would only star in cheaply produced television movies.

Not terrible, but certainly not recommended either...

Watching this film, I couldn't help but forgive its shortcomings. It was clearly made on a shoestring budget, with unremarkable locations and occasionally amateurish performances. However, the story's universal appeal overshadowed these flaws. As a film lover and someone who struggles with socializing, I found myself deeply moved and able to relate. The film tackles the theme of moving on and growing up, a familiar territory in cinema. Despite lacking groundbreaking elements, it exudes a nostalgic charm that captivates. The writing, direction, and acting are surprisingly strong, which adds to its merit.

I encourage film lovers to get out to see I LIKE MOVIES while during its theatre run.

Writer and Director Chandler Laveck has written such compelling and complex human beings.

The lead protagonist Lawrence Kweller is at all times amusing, frustrating, unlikable and endearing. What a tough sell! Actor Isaiah Lehtinen has done a fantastic job of hitting the right notes every moment.

Others Romina D'Ugo, Krista Bridges and Percy Hynes-White's solid chemistry on screen was steadfastly convincing throughout. The film is so tight with the smallest details from art direction, costuming, language, pop culture references, character motivations and development.

I can't say enough good things about this movie! It's a charming, heart-breaking coming-of-age story that will make film lovers everywhere laugh with recognition. And I love how specific and true it is to its Southern Ontario setting. A masterpiece.

Anyone who says the protagonist is unlikeable, just doesn't get it. He's flawed and human and it's delightful to watch him learn the errors of his ways and grow as a person.

Director Chandler Levack is in full control of her story, period details are spot on and the acting is superb.

This is one of the best Canadian films I have ever seen hands down.