There is a dystopian COVID-inspired atmosphere that kicks off the film, while chronicling the lonely life of one of L. A.'s folks who is clearly a creative, but after not finding his dreams, finds himself on the streets and in grimy backwoods areas of SoCal. The lead actor does a very good job of showing the bits of madness that come from isolation. When (e meets a woman who is also living out of sight of the mainstream, he begins to forming a genuine human relationship that hints at finding the kind of connection that could lead to something better for them both. However, the film turns when hazmat-suited vigilantes make an appearance for reasons that remain unclear until the end of the film. But this is when the film gets interesting. Definitely unlike any film you've seen before, that's for sure.
10 Reviews
A story of hope.
scanscapework4 May 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Say Goodbye to Hollywood is set in a dystopian COVID-inspired Los Angeles and follows the lonely life of a LA homeless man. I am pretty sure this movie was made during the pandemic because there is no way to get the shots of the empty Hollywood streets that you see in this movie without paying a lot of money! It's so eerie to see the streets so empty but the scene where a man is executed in the streets by people in hazmat suits was jarring to say the least. That scene getting stuck with me. Having said that this is a story of hope and I am always a sucker for a story with hope. If you like a movie that ultimately is about hope watch Say Goodbye to Hollywood.
Riveting
recollins-685885 April 2022
For the most part, I was impressed by this movie for capturing the stark and lonely landscape of Hollywood. The film manages to get the bleak premise that we must all hide and live in fear. Sean (Michael Collins), conveys depression and anxiety equally well as he lives his life on the wiped out streets of L. A. The film starts slowly and methodically but begins to pick up the pace about half way through. At times the film editing seems uneven and almost like patchwork, but maybe that is what is supposed to happen to give a certain effect. The cinematography is very striking and picturesque. Overall, the storyline is relevant to future catastrophic events. The acting is very good and the film will leave you with a sense of emptiness which I am sure that is why it was created. This film can drag along at times, but stick with it because it does hold your attention.
Dystopian indie
marceldorian28 March 2022
This little gem plays out in a barren Los Angeles where our protagonist Sean needs to come to terms with the new reality, a new world. It's a mysterious and spiritual journey. If you enjoy movies like The Road and Leave no Trace, this indie is for you.
Really enjoyed this
helmetsandshades21 March 2022
Bravo!!
craigahrens1 July 2022
This is a really well done movie! The look is stunning and the music score is top-notch!! I enjoyed the actors too! They were authentic and very good! The story held my interest throughout. I found no dull spots or parts that I wanted to see move along faster. Bravo to all who made this gem!!
Dystopian LA
catheraneskillen1 July 2022
Interesting take on a pandemic that acknowledges the subterfuge involved. Taking a Covid-like scenario and bumping it to a more intense level. An intense journey to the other side for a new hope. Arresting shots of LA. Wonderful haunting score by Jacob Bunton.
Isolation and Loneliness
dtittone26 January 2023
In "Say Goodbye to Hollywood," director Steven Helgoth does a brilliant job of capturing the emptiness and isolation associated with a global pandemic. Through striking visuals of an empty and lonely Los Angeles Landscape, Michael thematically explores how isolation and loneliness impact the human psyche in a post-apocalyptic environment. The pacing is measured and methodical to capture the loneliness felt by the protagonist and ultimate culminates in a surprise ending. Michael Collins, who portrays the protagonist in this film, does a great job conveying a character struggling with loss and anxiety as he attempts to cope with this new world order.
Pandemic Era Time Capsule
jae-133716 February 2023
It is surreal to see usually bustling areas of Los Angeles such as Hollywood as deserted as they are portrayed in 'Say Goodbye to Hollywood,' a sobering reminder of recent history and the backdrop for this dystopian drama centering around a mysterious solo traveler. The film slowly unfolds through these vast empty scenes that convey isolation and loneliness with elements of fantasy, at times reminiscent of The Stand, that keeps us guessing in this parallel pandemic universe. A spiritual quality runs throughout that explores the themes of loss, fate, and truth, adding unexpected twists and turns to a story that would otherwise make up your standard pandemic movie.
Full of Self Discovery
mettlesetdesigner9 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Say Goodbye to Hollywood has the look and feel of a modestly budgeted movie but don't let that fool you. This movie is full of both self discovery and destiny that is almost meditational at times. The filmmakers were not afraid to use silence in this movie and it works well at allowing the viewer to really feel the spirits of the characters Sean & Carla. Although Say Goodbye to Hollywood is a drama- fantasy there are elements that are a bit horrifying. The empty streets of Hollywood have an eerie vibe to them and watching men in hazmat suits walking a well dressed man into the streets and executing him was jolting. I love a movie that can evoke an array of emotions from the viewer and Say Goodbye to Hollywood does just that. I recommend this movie!
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