"To Love Somebody" Review

I've worked on the set of two independent movies in the span of the past year, so I'm very aware of the amount of work that goes into something like To Love Somebody. The ambitions of freshman director Ben Rider are certainly impressive, even if the independent romance film is not my personal preference. 

The film follows the saga of two couples struggling through traumatic circumstances thrust upon them. Meryl and Mike are coping with issues stemming from the loss of their child. Joanna and Tim are struggling to conceive one of their own. The resulting tension makes up for most of the drama. 

It is clear that Rider (who writes and directs) has a passion for cinema. After a viewing, there are very strong notes of a formalist approach to the genre, utilizing a very unique editing and shooting process. The sounds and visuals take you back to the era of French New Wave. Whilst today's audiences are used to a more traditional movie experience, the risks that Rider takes will no doubt impress the cinema aficionado. It presents a non linear story line juxtaposed along side the present conflicts to create an excellent contrast. He's certainly done his homework. 

That being said, the film needs a little bit more of a punch. It's a decent character study within the boundaries of what Rider uses to tell his story. But it lacks a real hook. Whilst the journey is an enjoyable one, it's not as bold as it has the potential to be. The third act could use some more spice to give the audience a little more of a satisfying story arc. I was hoping for something a little more exciting. While I certainly wasn't disappointed, it was a little underwhelming. 

The strongest performance in the film comes from the delightful Johanna Taylor. Her character shows a convincing character arc of someone who wants the most out of her marriage but does not want to betray who she is inside. Part of a team whilst independent. I can't reconcile the characters decision of withholding information, but I can find a lot right with the way Taylor expresses the mindset and the results of the disclosure. 

SIDE NOTE: I feel like Johanna Taylor would make an excellent choice for the role of Young Jean Grey in X-Men: Apocalypse.

As a critic, film student, and aspiring filmmaker, there is a lot I can appreciate from this film. And if the only issue I take with it was a need for a more significant "Wow Factor,"  then that's a good sign that Ben Rider has the tools to make it in this business. 

B+