Breaking Free: a Story of Survival

Read Time:3 Minute, 37 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
5lbs of Pressure
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Genre: Crime, Romance, Thriller
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 49m
Director(s): Phil Allocco
Writer(s): Phil Allocco
Cast: Luke Evans, Rory Culkin, Alex Pettyfer, Rudy Pankow
Where To Watch: in select Theaters, On Digital and On Demand March 8, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Explore the gritty urban jungle headfirst in 5 LBS OF PRESSURE. Walk through the dark alleys of crime and retribution. The film offers a deep, emotional dive into the quest for forgiveness against a backdrop of societal neglect. You’re in for more than just a crime drama right from the start. The film stars Luke Evans as Adam and Rory Culkin as Mike, delivering a punch of depth, turning a traditional tale into an extraordinary exploration of the human spirit.

Behind the camera, director Phil Allocco pulls from his life experience to lend the film an undeniable authenticity. This isn’t just storytelling—an invitation to a world where the battle for survival is daily, and violence is a grim side effect. Allocco orchestrates a narrative that addresses the endless cycle of violence, the decay of society, and the flickering light of hope in the pitch dark. We see a darkness in the film that overcomes narrative hurdles to showcase how far one will go to achieve what one wants.

In this urban world, Adam and Mike’s lives intertwine in a twist of destiny, driven by their shared struggle against the constraints of their past and present. The electric chemistry between Evans and Culkin ignites the screen, transforming their characters’ journey into a mesmerizing exploration of internal and external conflict. Although I will say that Culkin’s hairstyling is almost too distracting, I’m not entirely sure what the intent was there. Maybe that’s just his natural hair, which didn’t fit this role.

5 LBS OF PRESSURE isn’t content with merely showcasing the grim aspects of city life. Allocco’s directorial eye captures fleeting moments of beauty and resilience, presenting them with an unfiltered realism that resonates deeply. The film is full of parallels, offering a two-sided approach to the conflicts within the film and the characters themselves.

The narrative’s rhythm occasionally stumbles, with some scenes overstaying their welcome and others racing by too quickly, disrupting the otherwise smooth flow of the story. Moreover, at times, the film’s intent to convey a powerful message might be overly preachy, potentially alienating some audience members. Most of these issues could have been solved with a tighter and more streamlined edit; maybe the director wanted it this way, but it’s hard to say.

Yet, these hiccups hardly detract from the film’s overall impact. The stellar performances, particularly those of Evans and Culkin, add complexity to their characters, enriching the film’s emotional landscape. In addition, Phil Allocco’s diverse background in music, visual arts, and filmmaking enriches the film’s sensory experience with a soundtrack that perfectly mirrors the narrative’s emotional beats.

5 LBS OF PRESSURE embarks on a bold journey into the essence of forgiveness and the possibility of change, weaving the interconnected tales of Adam and Mike. The film invites viewers to ponder the power of redemption, even in the darkest corners. Crafted with thoughtfulness and unique visual flair, Allocco’s film stands out as a solid viewing for those who appreciate entertaining movies and prompt reflection.

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[photo courtesy of LIONSGATE]

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