Comedy That Feels Like Home

Read Time:3 Minute, 53 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
BAM!
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Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Drama
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 20m
Director(s): Jordan Tragash
Writer(s): Jordan Tragash
Cast: Tuxford Turner, Tip Sayarath, Brandon Wright, Noah Lash, Kiyumi Daniel, Kalil Sims
Where To Watch: on digital November 25, 2024 from Miracle Media

RAVING REVIEW: In what has to be one of the most significant recent surprises I can think of, we get to visit the streets of Chicago, which have never seemed as vibrant or alive as in BAM!, where the trials and triumphs of its gig economy community are portrayed with a mix of comedy and reality. This film cleverly journeys through their day-to-day lives, showcasing the unpredictability and surprises of urban living.

Jordan Tragash's BAM! strikes a resonant chord as it delves into the lives of a motley crew of young Chicagoans hustling in a world where every day and dolor matters. With a refreshing blend of humor and raw emotional moments, the film veers from conventional narrative arcs, celebrating its diverse cast's small yet significant victories.

At the center of the film’s charm is its ensemble cast, whose lives intersect unexpectedly. Auggie, played by Tuxford Turner, is particularly memorable as a nonbinary bike messenger navigating the city’s streets of Chicago and personal discovery. The dynamic between Eve (Tip Sayarath) and Dee (Brandon Wright) adds layers of unpredictability to the narrative. At the same time, roommates Bibi (Kalil Sims) and Cici (Noah Lash) provide a dose of hilarity with their clumsy foray into underground business operations.

BAM! thrives on the authentic absurdity that peppers the characters’ existence, connecting them through their quirky local "freelance pharmacist." This connection serves as the linchpin for the series of comical yet revealing misadventures that paint a broader picture of life in the city. These moments underscore the struggles and joys of urban living and highlight how a sense of community can flourish under the most unlikely circumstances.

The film’s backdrop, Chicago, is portrayed with such life and texture that it almost feels like a character in its own right. Tragash’s loving lens captures the city in all its complexity, weaving its spirit and energy through the narrative and using its architecture and streetscapes to enhance the story’s emotional landscape. The story isn’t about the stereotypical “big city” of Chicago that typically gets the spotlight but more about the smaller area between the suburbs and downtown.

In a departure from typical conflict-driven plots, BAM! opts for a lighter touch, focusing on character development and mutual support. This nuanced approach adds depth to the film, emphasizing themes of empathy and collective support without relying on antagonists to propel the narrative. The humor in BAM! is organic, stemming from genuine interactions and the inherent oddities of the characters' lives. This approach ensures the comedy resonates with a sense of truth rather than relying on contrived setups.

Despite the absence of blockbuster stars, the cast delivers performances that brim with authenticity and emotional resonance. Their chemistry enhances the film’s exploration of camaraderie and shared experiences, making the characters’ journeys all the more engaging.

BAM! celebrates the ordinary and the extraordinary moments that define urban life. It serves as a potent reminder that beauty and connection can be found in the most unexpected places amidst the chaos of daily existence. The film leaves a lasting impression, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the nuances of everyday interactions and the people who make them meaningful.

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[photo courtesy of MIRACLE MEDIA]

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