Title: The Other Half
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Director: Joey Klein
Starring: Tatiana Maslany, Tom Cullen, Suzanne Clément
Runtime: 1 hr 43 mins
What It Is: Nickie (Cullen) is a man struggling with grief and dealing with the anger caused by that grief. Emily (Maslany) is a woman dealing with bipolar disorder. When the two of them meet and try to create a life together there various personal demons seem hellbent on getting in the way. From mental breaks to insecurities the two will try to navigate whether or not they can accomplish this goal and live a full, happy life together.
What We Think: So beautiful! That’s really all I can say to describe it. The film’s acting is where this film’s bread is buttered. Tatiana Malsany is such a great actress and she really handles her role as a person with bipolar disorder. Likewise, Tom Cullen is brilliant in his sadness. The both of them just exude the love and have amazing chemistry with one and other. Narratively some of it is a bit old hat but it’s all wrapped up with enough unique points that you can’t help but love it. I love some of the shot decisions Klein makes and the look of the whole film seems a heck of a lot better than that of most indie RomComs.
Our Grade: A-, God I loved this thing! I felt like I was on the journey with Nickie and I didn’t know what Emily would do from one moment to the next. It’s that roller coaster that leaves you and the rest of the audience in absolute suspense. There’s some awesome stuff here and I recommend everyone check this incredibly heartfelt and unique romantic comedy. If you’re looking for a tearjerker this will totally have you at the very least a bit a case of the onion eyes.