First Date

The writing and directing remind me of Kevin Smith and Clerks, in that this is the first big film that is coming from a great talent with very little to work with. I have no doubt that the people involved with this project will get another, much larger, round of funding for their next piece, and that this will remain a solid classic for years to come. As with most comedies, I'm expecting my second watch to contain more laughs, but the first run through didn't disappoint. While there are the typical "faux pas" that come from low budget comedy acting, there are many great characters and moments that make this excellent little story shine.

FIRST DATE is a movie that impressively walks the fine line between laugh out loud coming of age comedy, and anxiety inducing thriller. A small town full of oddball characters cause a teenage date night to go horribly awry: ruthless, crooked cops, a vicious drug ring (with a book club), and a crazed, trigger happy woman all cross paths with hilarious and violent results. A comical, double crossing, trust-no-one, crime spree mystery with a charasmatic lead (keep an eye on Tyson Brown, he could be a star). The action keeps the 2 young lovebirds apart for most of the film, and their strong chemistry makes you cheer for them to get together. Perhaps it feels a touch too long, but FIRST DATE is funny, sweet, erratic, and violent. Lively entertainment from start to finish.

"First Date", I am particularly fond of this film! It leaves a long lasting impression with some remarkable scenes and relatable characters. Its easy to get involved in the story as the plot unfolds and the action heats up. I really enjoyed the dialogue in the film and the genuine laughs. For an independent film, there are some scenes that truly shine with brilliance.

"First Date" is an ambitious thriller-comedy-action-romance independent movie, with quirky characters and several excellent action-driven set-pieces. Its themes are subtle, and there is substance underneath all of its flashy style; but it is not heavy-handed, and it is definitely entertaining. I was glued to the screen up to the end credits, not knowing where it will go next, or how it will end! I found the movie to be like an indie homage to wild action-comedies like Pineapple Express and Game Night, though it also has the quirky world and characters of a movie like The Big Lebowski. Being that it tackles so many different genres, some may take issue with the movie's mercurial tone... but in the end it is still a thrilling, entertaining movie. Watching it was a real rollercoaster of a ride, so if you're looking for a thrilling experience, check out this movie!

I really loved First Date. It was fun, different and had a lot of quick unexpected turns. All things I love to see in an indie film. It got the comedy right and keeps you guessing "what's going to happen next?" Some great acting performances too. The director(s) really set the tone and the cast of quirky characters all find there place to shine in this well executed dark comedy.

I saw this at the at the Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival which typically slates a lot of great selections and First Date really stood out as exceptional.