by Shane Conto
When was the last time you watched a film with no expectations and without knowing much about it blew you away? This is such a special experience for a film fan. That feeling of surprise and a raw emotional connection without expecting it can be so memorable. You all probably do not have to wonder too hard to figure out the last time I had that experience. Watching my screener of Spontaneous surely produced that feeling. What a strange premise this film has? The very center of this film may be a standard teenage romance, but the bigger picture paints quite the opposite of “standard”. What is causing all of these young people to just explode and leave nothing but their clothes and blood?
This film is so well put together and realized that maybe the answer to that question might not be too significant to begin with.
One of the biggest surprises about this particular film is the technical merit that it may boast. Writer-director Brian Duffield is able to build incredible tension throughout the film. Where many films might fall into traditional tropes and telegraphed tense moments, Spontaneous is able to excel. The nature of the story that features a premise of teenagers exploding at any moment leaves the film open to lean into those tense moments. That was beneficial to the film because it created a poignant sense of dread that worked so well on the lower levels of the story. I was on the edge of my seat wondering when someone might die next and they always were presented in a well crafted and effective manner. The cinematography is also of higher quality as the framing in many shots are so effective at moving into close-ups. The film also has quite the pacing as this is a zippy little film. Duffield is always able to capture the perfect tone for this film as well. The music choices hit home and fit the message and energy that the characters are living through.
Duffield is able to create an inspired script as well that at times is hilarious and funny and others deeply entwined with the dark elements that make up the films messaging.
First things first…the dialogue. The lines written for the young actors portraying these teens are poignant and moving at times, but most of the time they are bitingly funny and relatable. These teenagers act like actual TEENAGERS. The teens, especially Langford, came out swinging with hilarious pieces of dialogue. The two central teens are well fleshed out and with Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer handling them with great performances. The way that the strange occurrences are explained is bold in its own right. The film takes a deep and philosophical perspective instead of going for crazy twists. This actualization really helps flesh out the characters and film in a more meaningful way.
The real star of this film is the young and talented, Katherine Langford.
Langford is a charismatic powerhouse who is able to carry the film on her shoulders. She is able to deliver all of her lines in a way that feels earnest and confident. Langford is able to show off her comedic chops and timing with impeccable precision. This is definitely a star making performance for her. Langford’s Mara is the real heart and soul of this film. You travel with her from start to finish and the journey she goes on is introspective and meaningful. Charlie Plummer is a great supporting piece to Langford in the film. He is earnest and endearing. We want the two of them to make it through together and that just makes the tension so much worse. Piper Perabo and a surprising Rob Huebel are also great as Mara’s parents.
Do you want a film to watch this weekend that will surprise you? Do you want one that will make you laugh? Do you want one that will also keep you on the edge of your seat? Well…you better take advantage of the film experience that is Spontaneous. You will laugh, you will tense up, and you just might cry.
Grade: A-