It seems I like independent films. Here I am, again, writing a review because I liked this film so much. Loved the amplified sounds of the creaking, older car door, winding down the window, and the rest. Like the moments that fill in backstory and character choices. Like the quick misdirections, and the fact that there's a clear juxtaposition between characters uncomfortable because they know they're treading in dangerous territory, and those that accept their forbidden activities as a natural course of events. Inventive way to start a kidnapping, and was that a big clue just put over her head? Liked the director's choices in blocking, how the camera was often, if not mostly, slightly off center. There were angles, triangles, diagonals, lighting choices that made every shot interesting, to me. For those who have expressed disappointment with the acting, I respectfully disagree. This is a small story about real people. I think every single actor was spot on, and, again, the choices made by either the director or the actors. There are quiet moments that speak volumes. I especially like that we can figure out who the kidnapper is, and we're not dragged through all kinds of red herrings just to fill frames. All the suspects are shown to us, then it's up to us to pay attention. All the clues are there, all the reactions, nuances. You just have to be engaged and follow where this deft little film takes you. It's charming, and that's a word I seldom use in a positive sense. But, in this case, it is very positive. It lures you, leads you, holds you, then let's you go with a very satisfactory ending. Loved it.
Review of The Good Student
