Sugar Daddy - Na Busca de um Patrocínio

This movie really surprised me. I had low expectations perhaps. A strong all Canadian cast that normally play supporting roles; a debut writing effort; and a single poor review at the time I watched this. But something pulled me in anyway. I was intrigued to see how Kelly McCormack would be in a lead role as I had only ever seen her as a supporting actor in a SciFi series (Killjoys).

I was truly blown away. Kelly is an amazingly talented performer. Not just in her acting skills but her singing and writing too. The story line was strong and well paced; the cinematography and production well done and the music was perfect. I was drawn into Kelly's character, Darren, feeling the angst she was going through. I was doubly surprised when I realized Kelly was performing her own music.

I do suggest watching this on a big screen with good speakers.

Now if you are expecting some seedy movie about sugar daddies and sugar babies, it isn't that at all. It is just a backdrop to the personal journey Darren goes through which is brought to a solid conclusion.

While Colm Feore and Amanda Brugel were supporting actors, their performances were rock solid. Amanda's screen time was short being only in a handful of scenes but she was very present in this movie.

I am now a Kelly McCormack fan and I really look forward to her future projects.

Depressed, artsy girl of few words bristles at the avalanche of oppression around her. God, can't the world just sympathize with her plight?!

This is a sub-genre of film that needs to go away. Either that or people need to remember to write an actual story.

If you are expecting some trash expose exploiting victim culture, you should turn away and go find yourself a bucket and cry your tears into it as you binge watch animal rescue videos. No judgement of course.

Kelly McCormack brings Darren into solid form. A constant mess juxtaposed on the narrow ledge of life and morality. Her performance of a train wreck is addictive. Darren is nervous, fleshy, transient yet heavy like a boulder on your chest.

The pace and the cuts have great direction. The cinematography matches. It is a slow burn, that leaves a mark.

I was expecting something sufficiently sleazy, scandalous and cautionary, a la LMN fare, but this film is anything but. It's got a lot going for it: a highly charismatic leading lady, some wonderful experimental music, some fantastic camerawork, a strong supporting cast, thought-provoking dialogue and an intelligent plot. I would have given it a 10 if there'd been a bit more backstory, but this was definitely time worth spent. I'm eager to see more films from Ms. McCormick.

The only good thing about this movie is Amanda Brugel. The pace is so slow, and the lead character is annoying as hell. I would like most of my 101 minutes back, please.