Reviews
Good Bad Things (2024)
Fantastic movie
This movie surprised me with how great it was. I have the same condition as the main character, so I may be biased, but I was not expecting it to be as great as it was. Danny Kurtzman was fantastic and felt very authentic moving in the world of the film. We all - regardless of ability - need a friend like the character Jason, played exceptionally well by the handsome Brett Dier.
I would argue this film was more about the deep love between friends than the romance with Madi, played very capably by Jessica Parker Kennedy. The conflict may have been focused on Danny and his journey to opening up and being vulnerable again, after being hurt before, but to me the real dynamic relationship was Jason and Danny. It was moving to see them together.
The primary plot that gives the film stakes - the company - is background, but I didn't mind that. It felt much more like a character study, and the company / advertising story helped demonstrate character. And it gave Danny a chance to give a fantastic, moving monologue. His delivery was so authentic and real.
In addition to all of this, it was beautifully shot, well composed, paced very well, and felt truly remarkable for what I expect was a limited budget. And that it was the first feature for the writer and director is truly notable. I hope to see a lot more from him!
This is one of those films that is greater than the sum of its parts and made me want to follow the careers of all involved, particularly Brett Dier and Shane Stanger.