Notes On An Appearance is a 2018 independent film directed by Ricky D'Ambrose. The movie has an immersive and melancholic atmosphere that draws its inspiration from the French New Wave style. It is a minimalist drama that follows the story of several characters who are coping with the disappearance of a young man named David. Zia Anger, Michael M. Bilandic, and Bingham Bryant play the lead roles in the film.
The movie is set in New York City, and it showcases the life of David, who is a quiet and introverted writer. He suddenly disappears without a trace, leaving his friends and family perplexed and concerned. The movie unfolds through vignettes of several characters' accounts of their interactions with David. The opening scenes of the film set the tone for the rest of the film, showing David's apartment and the contents of his notebook, which is filled with cryptic notes and sketches.
The movie avoids traditional narrative techniques like exposition and backstory, preferring instead to focus on the subtleties of character relationships and the nuances of human interaction. The story is told through a series of fragmented scenes, the order of which is not always linear. The movie sounds beautiful, and the soundtrack has been composed by local musicians and bands.
The film's primary theme is the search for meaning in life and the fragility of human relationships. Each character in the movie has a personal connection to David, and his disappearance reverberates in each of their lives differently. Some are trying to find him, while others are trying to come to terms with his absence. The film presents an interpretation of how people deal with grief and uncertainty.
One of the film's strengths is the depth of its characters. They are all complex and multi-dimensional, and their relationships with one another are equally intricate. The cast is also excellent, with Zia Anger delivering a notable performance as the enigmatic Sarah, who is David's ex-girlfriend. Michael M. Bilandic plays the role of David's friend, who is struggling with his own inner demons, and Bingham Bryant brings a sense of humor to the film as a struggling writer.
Another unique aspect of the film is its use of locations to tell the story. The city of New York features prominently throughout the movie, with the director using various locations to convey the mood of each scene. Whether it is a crowded subway train, a bookshop, or a deserted beach, each setting is used creatively and thoughtfully.
In terms of production value, the movie has a low-budget feel, but it is not a hindrance to the film's overall effect. The director uses minimalistic cinematography and editing techniques to great effect, highlighting the performances of the actors and the mood of the story. The film's pacing is measured and deliberate, with the storyline gradually unfolding with each new scene.
In conclusion, Notes On An Appearance is a thought-provoking and engaging film that showcases the director's skill at creating a distinctive atmosphere and mood. It is a movie that rewards attentive viewers who are willing to contemplate its many themes and ideas. It tackles issues of love, loss, and identity in a way that is unique and memorable. It is a movie that stays with you long after the credits roll. Fans of the French New Wave style and minimalist independent cinema will find much to appreciate in this film.
Notes On An Appearance is a 2018 drama with a runtime of 1 hour.
It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4 and a MetaScore of 61.
