From Haunting Elegance to Adrenaline Rush

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MOVIE REVIEW
Another Day to Live Through
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Genre: Thriller
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 21m
Director(s): Peter Simmons
Writer(s): Peter Simmons
Cast: Lene Kqiku, Timo Torikka, Vincent Willestrand
Where To Watch: on UK digital September 11, 2023, from Reel 2 Reel Films

RAVING REVIEW: Peter Simmons, a fresh face in the feature film directorial arena, takes us on a profound cinematic escapade, merging the unique essences of British and Finnish storytelling in ANOTHER DAY TO LIVE THROUGH. Imagine a world where each scene unravels like a riddle, beckoning you to solve it. While there are some growing pains in consistency and quality, I was impressed as a whole.

Amid this odyssey, our story gravitates toward Satu and Lauri. The enigmatic Lene Kqiku breathes life into Satu, a tapestry of emotions and complexities. Timo Torikka, in contrast, presents Lauri with a cocktail of strength and exposed vulnerabilities. Their paths cross in an eerily secluded cabin, the perfect setting for a narrative that feels like a dream dancing on the precipice of reality. Every moment questions the fabric of what's real and what is a mere mirage.

ANOTHER DAY TO LIVE THROUGH is a soulful interrogation nudging you, ever so gently yet persistently, to reflect on the ever-blurring lines between identity, reality, and the search for a triumphant existence in our ever-morphing universe. This isn't just a flick to get goosebumps from; it's a cerebral stimulant, a chalice of deep thoughts. Be warned, some moments will make you cringe (both in good and bad ways.)

Director Simmons and Lead Kqiku are both tackling their first feature film project but do so with a grace that I wasn’t expecting! They've stitched together a narrative that dives deep into the world of arthouse aesthetics yet packs a punch with edge-of-the-seat moments. It's like a fine art painting with a side of rock 'n' roll – a delightful mix for the casual onlooker and the deep-thinking viewer.

Of course, like any ambitious endeavor, a few stitches need to be put in the right place. Peeling back more layers of Satu and Lauri's history would amplify the depth of their on-screen bond. A sprinkle of suspense here and a dash more character deep dive there would elevate the narrative to the next level.

But don't let these critiques deter you. The portrayal of raw, gut-wrenching terror juxtaposed with moments of poignant reflection truly showcases cinema's power to mirror the myriad shades of human existence. It's a rollercoaster ride through the human psyche's valleys and peaks, illustrating our deepest fears and loftiest aspirations. It’s just that it’s an independent film working through many new cast and crew growing pains.

In closing, while ANOTHER DAY TO LIVE THROUGH may have a few creases that need ironing, its essence sparkles. It's a look into the future of what we can anticipate from talents like Simmons and Kqiku. This is a must-watch for those yearning for a movie that not just entertains but evokes profound introspection.

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[photo courtesy of REEL 2 REEL FILMS]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

#SAGAFTRA #WGA #SAGAFTRAStrong #WGAStrong