Two Step

I didn't know much about this before seeing it, and perhaps that's why it surprised me in some of its plot developments. In retrospective, it all makes sense from the start in terms of what it is aiming for, but I guess for some reason I didn't see it. The performances here are quite good, and the two main male actors do a fine job of really driving a line between them in terns of their portrayals, as well as thematically making the whole thing work. The best performer here is probably Beth Broderick though, who honestly looks like she hasn't aged one bit in about twenty years. She looks fantastic compared to her time in Sabrina. She brings such a natural presence here to her character and brings a lot of weight to the proceedings.

Two Step's narrative, actors, sound, and cinematography all deliver exceedingly well, in this fantastic thriller, drama, action, low budgeted film. These factors get better and better as the movie progresses. The characters remain memorable, the gun shots remain memorable, and the suspenseful guitar theme remains memorable. Most action thrillers are predictable, but the way Two Step's plot progressives leaves the suspense hanging throughout the entire film.

I would have given the film a 9 if not for the dialogue and acting that lacked in parts of the beginning. However, this did not decrease the quality of the exposition, as it was told very creatively, focusing mainly on visuals and actions from both James, the protagonist, and Webb, the antagonist.

The movie is violent, suspenseful, and very mature, not appropriate for ages below 11 or 12.

I totally agree with what said the other comment, where it was said that this story with so many sub characters, with no real lead one, looks like a modern TV show scheme. Very weird indeed, especially for a so short film, ninety minutes. Not bad at all. Typical indie B flick. Good characters away from clichés. The ugly guy, released from jail, is absolutely terrific, so cruel, calm, and in some other scenes, so smooth and moving; you could nearly feel empathy for him. I have rarely seen such a "delightful", because ambivalent bad guy on screen. Just enjoy.

This was a good film noire – a favourite genre of mine. It is minimalist – with sparse dialogue. There are some good twists. One is never quite sure where this film will take you, with the flow from scene to scene unpredictable.

I felt all the characters, most of whom were unknown to me, gave good solid performances. There was nothing over the top (no histrionics) and each played their role well. The violence is sudden, but not over- emphasized. I felt on edge through-out this film. There is an uncomfortable feeling throughout. The music was appropriate and added to the atmosphere.

This movie approaches great many times, and I would recommend it as an exciting story with some great acting that drags a bit here and there. Webb, our antihero, realizes his life has gone upside down while he was in jail, when he finally gets home to find his girlfriend has dumped him for his boss, stolen all his money, and he owes said boss $10k.

James is a college dropout who's grandma was swindled by Webb previously, and their stories intersect when Webb tries again. James is held prisoner in his grandmother's home while Webb begins to spiral out of control.

Webb seems truly upset and confused why he's being pushed away by people he considered family. It seems especially true with Duane, whom he looked at as perhaps an older brother.

There's a fair amount of violence, and the way James Landry-Hébert plays it suggests that while Webb is committing these horrible crimes, he is genuinely upset with himself. There are several scenes where his despair at his own actions is evident; and I think the way he refuses to look at his girlfriend after killing her is a great example.

For me, Dot and her married ex-boyfriend were generally unnecessary characters, and her scenes with James were too long and plot wise, wasted time (also, don't judge me, her wardrobe was probably better for a younger woman). Duane, Webb's boss, was a great addition, and I loved his Texas-isms; as was his friend, the biker.

Overall, I would recommend this movie to someone looking for a thriller, with the caveat that there will be parts that aren't amazing. Also, how the hell does he drag that cigarette so deep, hold it to swallow his beer, then exhale the smoke? I don't understand the mechanics of that.