Slipaway

In these times of global conflict, gloomy job markets and action-packed block buster movies, lovers of the offbeat variety kind of fare doesn't have too many contemporary films to enjoy. It was therefore a pleasant surprise to discover this beautiful gem of a movie recently. The film weaves topical themes like drug addiction of the young and loneliness of the elderly into a pleasant story involving an unlikely pair that shows how love and compassion can transform individuals. Watching this 2017 film about compassion for the dregs of society in a World that seems to have gone berserk in 2025 is hugely comforting and reassuring. The problem of de-addiction has also been touched upon in films like Clean (Olivier Assayas) but the medicine employed by the freshman director of Slipaway is a kind of motherly love that has the power to rescue someone who falls into a ditch. The lead pair of Elaine Partnow and Jesse Pepe act brilliantly. The man-woman platonic relationship of the film reminded me of two Mrinal Sen films (Neel Akaser Neechey, Bhuvan Shome) that had such relationships. The film is directed by Julia Butler and Daniel Mentz.

Rating: 4.3 out of 5.

I have no idea what awards this film won but it couldn't have been for the acting.

Slipaway was a joyful surprise - I don't know of any film like it. The relationship between the older woman and the young man was so natural, and so nuanced, so authentic. Elaine Partnow is amazing in the role, and Jesse Pepe is perfect as her friend and confidante. The relationship with the family is natural too - annoyed, impatient with the difficulties of aging and loss of independence. Even the aging, courageous woman: so tough, so smart, so independent - she won't last forever. Bravo to the writers and to the directors, crew and actors for giving us such an important view into the future of all of us.

I read a few other reviews that panned this movie. I think maybe written by younger people and cynics. Older viewers will appreciate Elaine Partnow's role and her smiling wise eyes. The plot may seem boring to some, almost predictable, but give it til the end and see how you feel. You may just enjoy this. Jesse Pepe isn't hard on the eyes. And the beautiful Partnow is genuine in her performance. The boat is it's own character as well. It's a good Sunday afternoon movie about true kindness, love, and unexpected friendships that can happen if you just take the chance. Glad I didn't read the bad reviews first.