Manhattan Stories

It took me a minute to get on this movie's wavelength, but I started really digging it about halfway through; I think it was the bike chase that ultimately won me over, or maybe it was the progression of the Michael Cera / Abbi Jacobson relationship. Since finishing the film, it's only grown in my estimation. It's a scrappy, messy, funny, quiet, insightful indie comedy that I may still be underrating.

I had never even heard of this movie before clicking on it (I've recently fallen in love with Michael Cera and searched his name on Hulu in a desperate attempt to find something other than his more popular films such as Scott Pilgrim VS the World, Superbad, or Juno.). I went into it expecting nothing, but I was pleasantly surprised. The movie follows four people in New York City over the course of one day, each facing their own unique trials. The movie is definitely on the edgy-artsy-indie side and has that certain awkward and uncomfortable air around the characters and dialogue. It was interesting throughout the entire film. I was surprised when it ended because I was so captivated that it felt like it just started. You'll never guess what'll happen next. If you're looking for a happy ending with a complete resolution, this isn't the movie for you. The characters don't really have a complete wrap up and round off except for Benny. It leaves you slightly dissatisfied, but I still enjoyed the movie. The characters are all extremely lovable and relatable despite how odd and unique they are. The movie was well executed.

This is the most perplexing crap I've ever seen. Is it sincere mumblecore or is all the awkwardness due to a poor writing/subpar acting? Definitely has good moments, definitely has terrible moments. I don't know

I can definitely see people being bored with this movie. I've seen a lot of movies like it that fail miserably and are relentlessly boring. This film is different. I liked ALL of the characters. They all carried a distinct persona despite limited screen-time and are very relatable. Each person is layered and genuine, none of whom are wholly good or bad. The humor is subtle yet gratifying and conflicts are handled maturely.

In a sense this movie connects all the disparate parts of the self: the quiet and anxious Abbi, the desperate showoff in Cera, the gloomy brooder in Ray, the arrogant insecure teen in Wendy, the insecure lovestruck teen in Melanie, and the passionate local "hero." Nothing feels forced or contrived. I can definitely see myself watching this many times in the future. I honestly didn't mind the lack of action and drama because I just wanted to sit with each character.

I can assure you I'm not a paid shill either. This movie isn't for everyone, but if you give it a chance I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.

The movie follows an ensemble cast of characters as they face various situations in their lives, all in one day in New York City. The humor here can be subtle and quirky at times, but the film itself loses steam, in my opinion, as it progresses and ends up not really going anywhere.

There were moments when I felt this indie had a Woody Allen feel to it, but those moments were too few and far between. All in all, some sparks of cleverness but they just weren't sustained.