Surrender to It: A Review of a Painful and Comedic Reunion
In the world of cinema, it's often said that 'the show must go on', even when the actors involved are struggling to stay relevant. This is the premise behind writer-director Tim Bryn Smith's latest endeavor, 'Surrender to It'. Despite the waves of derision that greeted his previous film, 'Peter's Friends', it seems Bryn Smith and his cast of actors were determined to give it another shot. And boy, does this film live up to its name, as it's a painful and comedic journey through the lives of a group of aging actors who once shared a passion for the craft.
The story revolves around a reunion of sorts, as these actors, now long past their prime, gather for a hiking weekend. Among them are Dani (Daemian Greaves) and Celena (Melissa May Smith), a bereaved couple mourning the loss of their son. While their grief is handled with some sensitivity, it's a stark contrast to the comedic subplots that dominate the rest of the film. These subplots involve a motley crew of former best buds, each with their own unique struggles and secrets. From Ram (Fletcher Graham), a big-time movie star recovering from a scandal, to Hugo (Bryn Smith), the talent that never quite flourished, and Evie (Chantelle Lee), an influencer with hidden feelings, the characters are a colorful bunch.
However, what makes 'Surrender to It' particularly interesting is the trio of locals, who are as far from the stereotype as can be. Their presence adds a layer of complexity to the story, as they become entangled in the main gang's adventures. And let's not forget the magic mushrooms, which play a pivotal role in the film's climax, adding a surreal and somewhat chaotic element to the proceedings.
In my opinion, the script, credited to Bryn Smith and Chris Wetton, feels like a wild ride through improv exercises and random suggestions. While some of the performances are passable, the overall stiff and gestural quality of the acting, amateur production values, and scissorhand editing make it a challenging watch. It's as if the film is struggling to find its footing, just like the actors themselves.
One thing that immediately stands out is the contrast between the maudlin tone and the comedic subplots. While the grief and personal struggles of the characters are touching, the humor feels forced and out of place. It's as if the film is trying to have its cake and eat it too, but ends up with a messy and unsatisfying result.
In conclusion, 'Surrender to It' is a film that struggles to find its identity. While it has its moments of pain and comedy, the overall execution feels amateurish and uninspired. It's a reminder that sometimes, even when we surrender to our passions, the results may not always be what we expected.
