The Human Mind Solitude Explored

Read Time:4 Minute, 16 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Go/Don't Go
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Genre: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi
Year Released: 2021
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director(s): Alex Knapp
Writer(s): Alex Knapp
Cast: Alex Knapp, Olivia Luccardi, Nore Davis, Thomas Essig, Bettina Skye
Where To Watch: available to stream now on – Amazon Prime, Tubi, VUDU, and YouTube

RAVING REVIEW: In the post-apocalyptic genre, Alex Knapp delivers a compelling and reflective narrative with GO/DON’T GO. This isn't just another tale of desolation; it's a dive into the psyche of its protagonist, Adam. Knapp, wearing the hats of director, writer, and lead actor, crafts a story that's as much about inner turmoil as it is about external desolation. While I often am hesitant about one person tackling so many roles, I thankfully was proven wrong here. The film’s initial release, coincidentally during a global state of isolation, adds an unplanned but powerful layer of relevance. On its third anniversary today, the story feels as powerful as ever.

GO/DON’T GO isn’t a survival story; it explores solitude and the human condition while also showing how precious our moments are that we so often overlook. In a multifaceted role, Knapp guides us through a world hollowed out by an unnamed catastrophe (filmed before the first known cases of COVID-19, the film gives us a somber reminder of what was to come.) Through the eyes of Adam, portrayed by Knapp, the film uncovers the depths of a character's soul against a backdrop starkly different from the usual dystopian fare. I don’t want to ruin the way the story is told, but it offers a mix that is refreshingly welcome into this genre.

The narrative structure of GO/DON’T GO is a masterclass in storytelling, seamlessly transitioning between the bleak present and the reflective past. The film highlights Adam's relationship with K (a role filled by Olivia Luccardi), which is integral to understanding his state of mind. Each moment is intentionally paced at a leisurely store through this world, allowing the characters to reflect and the viewer to experience these moments with them, almost in real-time.

Cinematographer Frankie Turiano captures the essence of this desolate yet introspective world, while the film's soundtrack adds a haunting layer to the unfolding drama. GO/DON’T GO's deliberate pacing and restrained dialogue draw viewers into Adam's solitary existence, refreshingly departing from typical post-apocalyptic adrenaline rushes. While some viewers may take an issue with a slow burn, I think this may be one of the best uses of it that I’ve seen. It’s not “artsy, just to be artsy.” There is a method to it, a reason for it.

The film shines in its exploration of memory and nostalgia. Adam's life, filled with routines in solitude, is continually punctuated by a past that holds pain and beauty. Its slow-burning narrative and subtle storytelling demand a viewer's patience and willingness to engage with the film's psychological depth. The ambiguity of the plot adds an element of mystery but may leave some desiring more explicit answers. I will always champion a movie that doesn’t feel the need to lay out every detail for its viewers; your imagination is a vital component of cinema.

GO/DON’T GO is a unique and thought-provoking entry in the post-apocalyptic genre. It's a testament to Knapp's artistic vision, showcasing his ability to weave a story that focuses on the solitary human experience amidst loss and isolation. His involvement in the film at multiple levels speaks volumes of his filmmaking potential. While it may not resonate universally, its reflective and distinct approach makes it a must-watch for those seeking a more profound, more reflective cinematic experience in the often action-dominated world of apocalyptic storytelling.

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[photo courtesy of A+M CREATIVE, SSYY PRODUCTIONS, GO DON'T GO PRODUCTIONS]

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