Bound

"Bound," the feature directorial debut from Isaac Hirotsu Woofter, is a gripping indie drama that explores the resilience of the human spirit against a backdrop of abuse, trauma, and the harsh realities of life in New York City.

The film stars Alexandra Faye Sadeghian as Bella Patterson, a young woman deeply scarred by her past. Bella's life has been a relentless struggle, trying to shield her mentally unstable mother, Yeva (Pooya Mohseni), from her abusive and drug-dealing stepfather, Gordy (Bryant Carroll). When the situation becomes unbearable, Bella makes the brave decision to flee home, accompanied by her loyal pet sugar glider (aka pocket squirrel or flying squirrel). Symbolizing her fragile yet resilient heart and soul.

Sadeghian delivers a remarkable and convincing performance as Bella. Her portrayal captures the raw emotions and complexities of a young woman grappling with her traumatic past while striving to forge a new path. Her nuanced acting brings depth and authenticity to the character, making Bella's journey both compelling and relatable.

Her journey to New York City is fraught with challenges. With no money, no friends, and no shelter, Bella's pride prevents her from turning back. She briefly joins a group of goths and punks but soon finds herself on the run again. Her fortunes begin to change when she meets Owais (Ramin Karimloo), a Muslim American war hero who has lost everything after returning from the war. He offers her a job at his coffee shop, providing a glimmer of stability in her chaotic life.

As Bella starts to rebuild her life, she forms meaningful connections with Standrick, a gay black clothing designer, and Marta (Jessica Pimentel), an immigrant bar owner. These relationships help her to rediscover her passion for art and begin the process of healing. However, Gordy is determined not to let her go easily, adding a layer of tension to her newfound sense of hope.

"Bound" is a testament to Bella's toughness and determination. Sadeghian's powerful portrayal of Bella anchors the film, capturing the complexity of a young woman navigating the hard edges of New York City while clinging to her inner strength. The supporting cast, including Karimloo, Pimentel, and Mohseni, provide depth to the narrative, each portraying characters who are themselves dealing with profound personal struggles.

Woofter's direction brings a raw and authentic feel to the film, immersing the audience in Bella's journey. The pocket squirrel, an unusual but effective symbol, underscores the delicate balance between vulnerability and resilience.

"Bound" is a poignant and compelling story of survival, friendship, and self-discovery. It reminds us that even in the darkest times, there is always a way forward. Alexandra Faye Sadeghian's performance as Bella Patterson is nothing short of outstanding, making "Bound" a must-watch for its emotional depth and exceptional character portrayal.

This film made me think of Denis Villeneuve's PRISONER. It had the dark gritty energy where the characters, especially the family members always seem to be on edge and ready to do something crazy at any moment. Like they are all hyper explosive and ready to blow.

There are moments of humor and cuteness (insert pocket squirrel in any scene) to help cut the heaviness of the themes and intensity. Thank god, I don't think I could have stayed with it if it didn't, and it needed it.

Acting was very good across the board, cinematography was strong, and the fast quick cuts by the editor added to the intense feeling the main character was going through.

I saw this movie at a festival and the rewatched it because I felt like I missed something. It was most likely due to the fact I had a few drinks at happy hour and then missed the first 5 minutes of the film. I forgot there are no previews at film festivals.

Because the movie starts right away and the director has moment of very subtle storytelling, if you blink you will miss something that might not be super important later, but will add to the layers of the film. This is what I loved most about the film.

There is a big story going on, but also many little stories at the same time. Some with characters, some with objects, some with actions. Very cool and well thought out.

Just watched Bound and I was so in love with it! It's one of those beautiful, intimate movies that are kinetic, but also quiet. Got to meet Director Isaac Hirotsu Woofter on the festival circuit and was so glad I finally got to see his film! I felt like I really got to know Bella through her silence. When she eventually finds her voice later in the film, it's a testament to Alexandra Faye Sadeghian's performance and Isaac that I felt like I already knew her, because you ARE her when you watch. Really beautiful subjective storytelling! The film also does a great job of letting the intimate moments breathe, but then also propelling the plot forward at the perfect points. Love, LOVE the characters, and performances all around!

This little gem of a film is one heck of an emotional ride. I'm so happy to have stumbled upon it at a film festival. I rarely go to festivals, but after seeing this, I might start going to more.

I don't know much about these actors or the writer/director, but they all did a very good job keeping attention very taught from start to finish. I lost a lot of my fingernails by the end of this film.

I am a sucker for underdog stories, especially when the themes involve underrepresented people that fight together and managed to overcome the stacked odds against them. By no means am I saying it has a HOLLYWOOD ending, it does not. In a way it is a tragic ending, but resolves in a truthful, realistic way.