A Unique Blend of Thriller, Romance, and More

Read Time:3 Minute, 39 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Self Reliance
–

Genre: Comedy, Thriller
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 24m
Director(s): Jake Johnson
Writer(s): Jake Johnson
Cast: Jake Johnson, Anna Kendrick, Natalie Morales, Mary Holland, Emily Hampshire, Christopher Lloyd, Wayne Brady, Andy Samberg, GaTa, Boban Marjanović, Biff Wiff, Makini Manu, Gloria Sandoval, Steven Littles
Where To Watch: premieres on Hulu on January 12, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Jake Johnson takes over the director and writer's chair and leads the film SELF RELIANCE. This film serves as a unique blend of drama, thriller, comedy, romance, and just a pinch of horror thrown in for good measure. We're introduced to Tommy, your average everyday guy whose life is turned upside down by an intriguing offer from Andy Samberg (yep, because that’s how we start.) This storyline sets the stage for a dark web survival game, where the stakes are as high as they can get, entwined with a story of human connections that challenges the typical genre norms.

Johnson doesn’t hold back, mixing all these genres cohesively, resulting in somewhat of a movie cocktail that's as unpredictable as it is fascinating. By putting a fresh spin on the familiar narrative of a character in peril, Johnson's first directorial endeavor keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, constantly throwing curveballs that defy expectations. A film with this much going on still manages to take its time, especially in the beginning.

The film explores the complexities of human relationships in our increasingly disconnected society. Marked by doubt from those closest to him, Tommy's story mirrors the real-world challenge of forging authentic connections, either intentionally or not. Despite tackling these profound themes, SELF RELIANCE maintains an air of fun, thanks primarily to its subtle nods to absurdity, striking a thought-provoking and amusing balance. As always, Anna Kendrick shines, and her role as Maddy in the film is no exception. She brings a unique zest to any role that helps carry the rest of the film.

However, the film has its pacing hiccups. Particularly in the latter half, after a very deliberate, almost slow burn, SELF RELIANCE seems to rush through its narrative, leaving some plot lines in limbo. This is most evident in the film's climax, which doesn't match the momentum and anticipation built up earlier, leading to a somewhat underwhelming conclusion.

SELF RELIANCE also plays a unique hand in its casting choices. The film is sprinkled with familiar faces in more minor roles, adding a layer of intrigue but sometimes feeling more like clever casting tricks rather than essential narrative elements. Nonetheless, the film is firmly anchored by the compelling performances of Johnson and Kendrick, whose on-screen chemistry and timing provide much of the film's heart and humor.

Johnson's maiden voyage into directing with SELF RELIANCE is admirable and indicative of his potential in this new role. The film's interweaving of different genres and exploring themes such as loneliness and the search for meaning are engaging and thoughtfully executed. While it may stumble in places, SELF RELIANCE stands as a solid testament to Johnson's creative abilities and versatility, leaving viewers intrigued and looking forward to what he'll bring to the directorial table in the future.

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[photo courtesy of HULU]

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