How We Got Away with It

A really well executed story in a film genre that is too often "cookie-cutter". Even the title "How We Got Away With It" lulls you into a false sense of - "Oh I know what's going on".... Not so fast. The direction is clean and carefully picks it's "Oh Wow" moments, which allows the story to unfold on it's own, instead of bludgeoning you over the head with it. Perfect for this kind of film. The characters are distinct but at the same time, you feel like you know people like them, which helps draw you in. A dramatic, modern day BIG CHILL to be sure. It's one of those cool smaller budget films that you just happen to see and are real glad you did.

Not sure I will be able to do this movie justice... but I shall try. I purchased the DVD a few weeks ago (not sure the backstory as to why is relevant), and I have hesitated to watch. Mostly because I don't like violent, dark, evil…yes I'm a wimp… and well I wasn't exactly sure what to make of this from the information I had. So first I need to say, that my concerns were unfounded. This is actually a very human tale, and as large as it seems in scope (something about the lake, and the house, and the group of people), it really is character driven and relatable. I loved the pacing to PIECES! I am one of those people that have most "mysteries" figured out in the first 5 minutes. It's become a thing with my husband and I. We go to the movies and within the first 10 minutes I whisper the whole upcoming story in his ear. (Job Hazzard) You think he would get mad, but it amuses him… anyway.. I had NO clue what was going on in this movie. I found it RIVETING! That alone was worth the price of admission… a true "What the hell? What is this all about…PLEASE tell me more!" piece of entertainment. In the day and age where everything seems to be made for people suffering with short attention spans and the need to be slapped in the face, I so appreciated the deliberate focus, intensity, steady pacing, required cognitive engagement, build of this piece and pay off in the end. (Seriously what grown adult doesn't prefer that model when it comes to things pleasurable?) The characters were all interesting, and very well acted. And though I tend to be more an auditory person, the visuals were quite stunning in this piece. Some beautiful views, and some very dark ones, and the contrast of them made me think about all types of things that I may not have... but I won't say more for fear of divulging some information you shouldn't have before you sit back and let the story unfold for yourself. "How We Got Away With It", is very different than most of the stuff out there, and in an exceptional way. I came to find out later that this was what I guess Hollywood would call a "low budget feature"… that means nothing to me in the viewing audience. This was as entertaining as entertainment can get. All it proves is that all involved were extremely talented, creative and determined. It certainly showed in the final product. Highly recommended! (And thanks to those of you who put yourselves out there for our viewing pleasure!)

This is a thoughtful movie made outside the studio 'system'.

If you're not paying attention, it appears to be a movie about mostly 20-somethings getting together for an annual holiday, with an undercurrent of emo angst (minus the makeup and hair color).

If you are paying attention, you'll pick up on the undercurrents but it won't come together until after things turn sideways.

McCaleb Burnett's Henry hosts the group of long-time friends, but he's been distracted by recent events and seems to have an ulterior motive.

Richard Bekins makes the most of his brief screen time to establish his character (Walter) as the heavy.

The rest of the ensemble cast is so transparent that the group of friends is comprised of archetypes instead of the stereotypes you would see in a lesser movie.

Who does what and why does get explained, but you'll still have to pay attention to know just how they got away with it.

It is a rare thing where plot and actors are so delicately developed. I loved that one could only go with it, and piece by piece, until the actual end, the story revealed itself with well thought out timing. Just with a sentence every now and again you needed to piece it altogether. Just loved it. Clever, a rare commodity. The music supported scenery brilliantly. This is the sort of "undercover" thriller. Not for the impatient viewer, it's for those, who want to solve the puzzle, and you don't get disappointed. In the end you are just really are happy you have been part of it, touched about how deep the connections run, revealed with perfect timing.10 out 10 stars.

Here's another indie flick that keeps the viewer guess at exactly what is happening in this story and then it all comes together! I did so greatly enjoy this movie.

I do not want to give away any plot info because that is part of the charm of this story. The plot is spoon fed to you and you keep wanting more and suddenly you get a plate full and you see all the ingredients that made each spoon delicious. You will have to watch this fun movie to understand.

The girlfriend Anne plays a pivotal role because she seems clueless until the end ---- then you see how wonderfully Cassandra Freeman played her role. And if you like male eye candy Henry and Will aren't bad to see in their naked scene!!!

Bet you want to watch now!