Wow, where to start. In truth I was skeptical about Non-Transferable before I saw it. I know it sounds horrible, but I've supported other friends in LA over the years by watching their films, but it was always hard for me to write honest reviews because frankly I didn't resonate with their finished products. Brendan's film, however, was such a pleasant surprise. I'm so proud of him; I can see his unique style in every part of this passion project. It's a touching film that truly entertains from start to finish.
The great thing about this film is it doesn't try to be something nostalgic or similar to rom-com's of the past, instead engaging in a new kind of story that echoes the pains and passions of millennials and beyond. Ashley Clements and Brendan Bradley have amazing chemistry; if you're like me you'll be rooting for them to wind up together even early on. The stand out character that drives everything, however, is the locations. You can see the passion felt for these places, the love of history and culture there. You feel like you're along for the ride, traveling with them, and very few films succeed in that regard.
Ashley Clements as Amy is funny, quirky and adorable. She kicks the common romance heroine to the curb in favor of someone who is layered, complicated, and tenacious. Brendan as Joshua is perfect to match her, and the film picks up momentum once he appears on screen. I've always known Brendan was talented, but he definitely challenges himself in this role and delivers a funny, appealing and at times tortured character with pure finesse. Between the two of them, their on-screen chemistry propels the film forward and the locations do the rest.
The score can placate the scenes from time to time, but truthfully that's the only qualm I can think of. This is a great film about modern love, about the way we think our lives are "supposed" to go, and what happens when it doesn't. Within the words of this script there's a love story here not just for the two main characters, but for anyone who's ever felt lost or beaten. I can't wait to see where this film goes, and what Brendan has up his sleeve for his next project. Bravo.
