Anno 2020

James Morcan has successfully transformed his novel ANNO 2020 into a visual exploration of that moment in history - the year 2020 - when Covid19 disrupted our lives. Spanning multiple continents and cities, this lucid insight into how we all struggled to make sense of lock downs, wearing mask, confining our communication to cell phones, facetime, and streaming is brought to life through a sensitive interplay of characters of all types, searching for meaning, physical needs, and questions about life that suddenly became of paramount significance and importance. Not only is the well written, acted, photographed and directed, but it also proves to be a viable memory stone for that challenging year.

The film "Anno 2020" delves into the unique experience of life during the pandemic lockdown, offering a poignant exploration of relationships, family dynamics, and the fleeting nature of time. Despite its compelling premise, the film struggles with pacing issues, particularly in its extended runtime, making it challenging for viewers to stay engaged. While anchored by strong performances from actors Errin Connor and Greg Poppleton, the ensemble cast includes a mix of amateurs, resulting in uneven acting quality. Visually, the film lacks polish, with shortcomings in framing, lighting, and set design. However, standout musical moments and a compelling soundtrack contribute to its overall appeal. Ultimately, "Anno 2020" is an experimental endeavor born out of the constraints of the COVID-19 lockdown, showcasing the passion and dedication of its filmmakers, even if it falls short of professional standards.

Anno 2020 can best be described as an experimental film. Filmed during the pandemic, it holds a mirror to what we all experienced as a global society faced with lockdowns, mandatory vaccinations, and conspiracy theories, and looks at the challenges of staying connected during that difficult time in our lives. For me, the film is a little unnerving at times because of how "real" it feels. It's like watching my own experience of the pandemic through the eyes of the characters in the film, whose stories are not only compelling, and extremely well acted, but are also so familiar and honest in how they portray the emotions, fears, frustrations, hope, love, and the undying spirit of the human experience.

This feature film certainly does justice to its tagline... "Think you know what 2020 was all about? Think again."

Anno 2020 peels back the covers to reveal the hidden agendas of those in power in the cataclysmic year that was 2020.

It's a credit to the filmmakers that this movie was shot in 17 cities, on four continents during the strict lockdowns of 2020 - and all on a budget of US$6,000. Especially when you consider the actors were usually physically isolated and separated from their fellow actors and the director.

Having lived through the lockdowns, mandates and myriad of other COVID-related stresses of that year, as we lucky ones have, Anno 2020 is a movie we can all relate to regardless of our beliefs and convictions. Regardless of age, too. It's suitable for family viewing.

Highly recommended!

ANNO 2020 reflects upon human behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. The filmmaker, who is also the author of the novel the film is based on, has done an excellent job of shedding light on the effects a worldwide lockdown had on the human psyche. The film delves into the minds of several characters whose lives are turned upside down. Each character has a journey into self-awareness, owning up to the truth about their past and present. These poignant stories will stand the test of time, enlightening future generations about what the human spirit can endure in times of adversity.

I look forward to seeing more work by this filmmaker.