MOVIE REVIEW
Free Time
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Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 18m
Director(s): Ryan Martin Brown
Writer(s): Ryan Martin Brown
Cast: Colin Burgess, Rajat Suresh, Holmes, James Webb, Eric Yates, Jessie Pinnick, Rebecca Bulnes
Where To Watch: in select theaters March 22, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Embarking on a daring escape from the monotonous dead-end life of an office job, Drew’s (Colin Burgess) story in FREE TIME immediately captures the imagination. It’s a witty and insightful look at the struggles faced by those yearning to break free from the grind of day-to-day existence. As Drew navigates through his self-imposed freedom, viewers are treated to a narrative that’s as genuinely thought-provoking, authentic, and entertaining, resonating deeply with anyone who’s ever found themselves at a crossroads in life.

Burgess’s portrayal of Drew was perfect; he brought to life a character filled with complexities, humor, awkwardness, and a painfully relatable lack of direction. Through Burgess’s skilled performance, Drew’s noble yet flawed attempts at self-discovery become a humorous, if not somewhat cringeworthy, expedition that audiences can't help but root for—even as they squirm in their seats. Most of the ensemble cast of supporting characters hit home with their intended purpose, but it was Jessie Pinnick who had an excellent performance in limited screentime and will ultimately stick with me for some time; her grounded, realistic character, along with her ability to convey such emotion without dialogue at times was terrific.

FREE TIME strikes a chord with its exploration of the millennial dilemma—yearning for independence while searching for happiness in a world that constantly resists such desires. This film holds up a mirror to the audience, showcasing the universal struggle of finding one's place in the world. Randomly, I do feel I should point out the lack of score/soundtrack (mostly), which adds an uncomfortable yet intentional depth to many scenes.

What sets FREE TIME apart is its ability to tackle humor with poignant moments against an ever-changing New York City backdrop. The film cleverly utilizes extended scenes filled with awkward tension to reflect Drew’s internal battles and his mismatch with the surrounding world, offering an engaging and unique fresh take. I could see this film resulting in different reactions from different audiences; some people, especially those from other generations, likely won't get it. They may just not be able to relate. I could be wrong, but I’d be curious to see the breakdown.

Directed by Ryon Martin Brown on a shoestring budget and a tight shooting schedule, FREE TIME is an impressive debut that captures the highs and lows of a young man’s impulsive leap toward finding personal bliss. This narrative journey through Drew's initial thrill of freedom to his subsequent confrontations with reality offers a nuanced critique of the relentless pursuit of change.

Drew's story carves out its identity through vulnerability and misguided confidence. This narrative dance between empathy and annoyance with Drew’s choices maintains a captivating tension throughout the film, inviting viewers to reflect on their life decisions and the courage required to follow through.

FREE TIME is a multifaceted exploration of the search for purpose amidst the monotony of professional life, brilliantly blending humor with reflective moments. This film not only entertains but also provides a profound commentary on the challenges of contemporary existence. For anyone looking for a movie that manages to be both amusing and deeply reflective, FREE TIME is an unmissable journey through the realities of striving for a meaningful life in today’s world.

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[photo courtesy of CARTILAGE FILMS]

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