John

"John" (2023) is a groundbreaking action film that takes a unique and socially relevant approach to the genre. Instead of focusing on traditional action heroes, the film delves into the gritty lives of LGBTQ sex workers in the heart of Hollywood, LA. This daring choice, inspired by Italian neorealism and the French New Wave, provides a fresh and thought-provoking perspective on the action genre.

The film's strong suit lies in its character development, as it introduces us to a diverse cast of characters, each struggling to survive in a harsh and unforgiving world. John, the protagonist, brings an authentic and raw portrayal of someone fighting for acceptance and dignity. The action sequences, while intense and well-executed, are used as a backdrop to highlight the characters' resilience and the harsh reality they face daily.

Director's masterful use of the camera captures the essence of the streets of Hollywood, immersing the audience in the characters' world. The film's gritty visual style and hauntingly evocative soundtrack contribute to the movie's overall impact.

"John" is not just an action movie; it's a powerful social commentary that sheds light on the struggles of marginalized communities. While it might not cater to traditional action movie enthusiasts, it's an essential watch for those seeking thought-provoking cinema that challenges conventions and leaves a lasting impression.

There's not much here. The story centers around the male hustling trade in LaLa land. What might have been an excellent docudrama exploring the under represented lives of young men on the street completely misses the mark. First of all, the venue is all wrong. The producers and writers might have chosen a smaller town to focus their attention. Nobody cares about LA, it's way too stereotypical. Secondly, the writing is terrible. Then there's the acting which sinks this cinematic ship even further. John, around whom the picture revolves, has no personality whatsoever. We really don't learn too much about what motivated him to end up on the streets in the first place. He doesn't come across at all as a sympathetic character., the others even less so. This viewer wishes that the script had more socially relevant dialogue about the ups and downs of the life of a male sex worker. I also feel strongly that LA was the wrong selection for this yawn filled nonsense. Don't waste your time.

I can see what they were trying to do with this film, it just did not work.

I can appreciate the attempts to touch upon French new wave but it really does miss the mark.

This is a well worn and weary tale of street prostitution, attempting to blend realism with drama.

But the script is so disjointed and overlong. Whilst it tries to touch upon the different stories of various characters, be they prostitutes or their renters, it rests on cliche and feels too forced.

Whilst I can appreciate the rough edges of the acting (and their are some lovely performances) you need a strong lead, which this film fails at delivering. The lead actor is a one trick pony, utterly failing to portray any complexity or depth to a role which requires it.

It also suffers from some confusion on its style in acting. On the one hand it wants to portray realistic and raw, but then throws in some completely contrived sections.

I understand there are people who will love this, maybe I just think we have moved on from this style - relevant more for a different time in film.

But it is not a total loss for me, hence the 4 stars. Whilst meandering and dull at points, it has some bright moments which makes it worth a watch.

John" (2023) is a thought-provoking action film that takes a unique approach to storytelling. Set against the backdrop of Hollywood, LA, it delves into the struggles of LGBTQ sex workers, drawing inspiration from Italian neorealism and the French New Wave. The movie artfully blends action sequences with a poignant narrative, creating a compelling and emotional experience for viewers.

The film's exploration of the lives of sex workers within the LGBTQ community is both sensitive and raw, shedding light on a seldom-told side of society. The characters are richly developed, and the cast's performances are remarkable, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles.

Masterfully combines elements of classic cinema with a modern sensibility, resulting in a visually striking movie. The cinematography captures the essence of LA's gritty streets and vibrant nightlife, providing a vivid and immersive backdrop for the story.

The action sequences in "John" are thrilling and well-executed, showcasing impressive choreography and intense moments. These sequences serve not only as entertainment but also as a metaphorical expression of the characters' struggles and determination.

While the film's artistic influences are apparent, "John" manages to create a distinct identity of its own, offering a fresh take on LGBTQ issues and social realities. It invites viewers to reflect on the challenges faced by marginalized communities while delivering a gripping cinematic experience.

In conclusion, "John" (2023) is an action movie that goes beyond the genre's conventions, using its unique storytelling style to shed light on important societal issues. It's a must-see for those who appreciate thought-provoking cinema with a mix of action and social commentary.

One of the film's minor shortcomings may be its pacing, as it occasionally feels slow in its exploration of character development. However, this deliberate pacing serves to emphasize the daily struggles and challenges faced by the LGBTQ sex workers, making the viewer feel more deeply connected to their stories.

In conclusion, "John" (2023) is a groundbreaking action movie that transcends the genre's boundaries. It successfully combines the thrill of action with a profound exploration of the LGBTQ sex workers' lives in Hollywood. Inspired by European cinematic movements, this film offers a thought-provoking and emotionally charged experience that is both powerful and poignant.