Nutshells

Nicely filmed in Vancouver, it's a funny/observant look at a confused somewhat depressed/divorced man (Bill) at the end of male adolescence as he is transitioning into his late 30s into early 40s. He writes a successful blog column but doesn't know how to connect or treat people and can't continue with his cool guy image that worked well for him in his youth. With the help of his best friend Frank and reconnection with his ex wife Sally, he might be able to finally find himself. Writer/director Rob Carpenter has written a very funny and poignant script and allows his lead character (as well as the ensemble) to explore themselves and actually grow/change by the film's conclusion. A rare feat in modern cinema. The editing and tone shifts are sometime abrupt though and I feel with more concise editing, the film would have been even stronger. However, there are so many interesting touches here and fine performances by a talented cast. Casey Manderson is terrific as our angst filled hero-Bill. At first he's not the most likable guy but he invests the character with the right amount of self-doubt/vulnerablility and sharpness to makes us care and root for him. His work with Michael Brian who portrays his best friend Frank are gems in the film. They have a very believable bond and give an affecting turn in the best bromance sense. Kate Isaac and Genevieve Fleming also shine as Bill's neurotic ex-Sally and Frank's supportive wife Susan. Carpenter also creates some memorable bit parts-a sly first time celebrity author in a book signing scene (nicely play by Jason Beaudoin), Bill's sarcastic/lazy/envious shrink (Hans Potter) and a mysterious homeless man who turns out to be anything but. These fresh touches and the film's amusing/observant slice of life plot along with top notch performances, help make up for the rather disjointed flow and changes in tone. I really enjoyed the film and look forward to seeing more work from this team.