Wait is a 2015 independent drama film directed by Audrey Scott. The movie follows the lives of four characters whose paths intersect in unexpected ways, changing their lives forever. Micah Joe Parker plays William, a struggling actor who is also a waiter at a trendy Los Angeles restaurant. Nathan Stayton is Jasper, a wealthy businessman who has just gone through a messy divorce. Catherine Warner takes on the role of Rae, a young woman who is trying to put her life back together after a failed relationship. Finally, one of the restaurant patrons is a lonely woman named Sophia (Valerie Dillman) who is dealing with her own personal issues.
The film opens with William waiting tables at a shift job, trying to make ends meet while chasing his dream of making it big as an actor. On this particular night, he waits on Jasper, who takes an interest in William and offers him a job as a personal assistant. William accepts the job, hoping that it will provide him with the financial stability he desperately needs.
Meanwhile, Rae is in therapy, trying to get over a break-up with her ex-girlfriend. She is struggling with depression and is close to giving up when she meets Sophia in the restaurant. The two women strike up a conversation, and Sophia offers to be a listening ear for Rae.
As William settles into his new role as Jasper's personal assistant, he discovers a deep-seated loneliness in his boss. Jasper is struggling with the aftermath of his divorce and the constant pressure of his high-powered job. William finds himself drawn to Jasper and the two men become good friends.
Over time, William begins to notice that Sophia comes into the restaurant every night, alone, and always orders the same thing. He decides to strike up a conversation with her, and as they talk, Sophia reveals that she is recovering from a nervous breakdown. William listens to her and offers her his support and friendship.
As the film progresses, the lives of the four characters become increasingly intertwined. Jasper offers advice to Rae, while Sophia becomes a confidante for William. Each character finds strength and solace in their new friendships, and they learn to trust and rely on each other.
Although Wait is a slow-burning, character-driven film, it is never boring. Instead, the movie invites the audience to get to know each character intimately, and through this process, we become invested in their lives and their happiness. The film is beautifully shot, showcasing the gritty and vibrant streets of Los Angeles, and the melancholic yet hopeful tone of the movie is perfectly captured by the cinematography.
One of the standout performances in the film comes from Micah Joe Parker, who plays William with a vulnerability and a depth that is mesmerizing to watch. His relationship with Jasper is one of the highlights of the movie, and their scenes together are charming and touching. Nathan Stayton also delivers an excellent performance as Jasper, portraying his character's emotional pain and vulnerability with great skill.
Overall, Wait is a film that is both uplifting and heart-wrenching. It offers a poignant portrayal of human connection and the importance of finding support in unexpected places. The movie is a quiet gem, a beautiful reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.
