Retake is a 2016 independent drama film directed by Nick Corporon and starring Tuc Watkins, Devon Graye, and Derek Phillips. The film follows Jonathan, played by Watkin, as he hires a young male prostitute named Adam, played by Graye, to accompany him on a road trip across the American Southwest to places that hold significant memories from his past.
Jonathan is a middle-aged man who seems to be stuck in a state of emotional limbo. His life as a successful businessman is not satisfying him, and he decides to embark on a journey that will take him back in time to his youth. He hires Adam to play the role of his ex-boyfriend, Shane, who died tragically in a car accident many years ago. Despite Adam's initial reluctance, he agrees to accompany Jonathan on his journey, and together they set out on a trip that is at once cathartic and emotionally draining.
The relationship between Jonathan and Adam is complicated, to say the least. Initially, Adam is a pawn in Jonathan's game, a mere stand-in for his lost love, Shane. However, as the trip progresses, their roles begin to shift, and Adam starts to challenge Jonathan's perceptions of his past. Throughout the film, the two characters explore themes such as regret, loss, and the search for meaning and connection in life.
The film is shot beautifully, with stunning landscapes and intimate close-ups that capture the emotional depth of the characters. The chemistry between Watkins and Graye is palpable, and their nuanced acting is the primary driving force behind the film's emotional impact. Both actors deliver powerful performances that are both heartbreaking and hopeful.
Retake is a slow-burning film that requires patience and investment from its audience. The film does not offer easy answers to the complex emotional issues it explores, and it is up to the viewer to interpret the characters' actions and motivations. However, the payoff is significant for those who are willing to engage with the film's themes fully.
In conclusion, Retake is a must-watch for fans of independent cinema and those who appreciate the complexities and nuances of human emotion. The film addresses difficult issues in a thoughtful, sensitive, and ultimately hopeful way. The characters' journey may be painful, but it is also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of connection.
Retake is a 2017 romance movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.