Groupers

I bought this movie because I'm a fan of the filmmaker's podcasting endeavors. The film has some great moments. The Rashomon-style sequences are really well-done. And the performances by Nicole Dambro as Meg and Terrance Wentz as Durant are incredible. It is clearly an indie film and I forgive (and actually appreciate) some of those indie flaws, but I have a hard time forgiving the bad dialogue. Some of it is saved by great performances from the actors and the interesting story, but, ultimately, the dialogue brings it down from 9 to 6 stars.

Director Anderson Cowan takes risks in his first feature length film. Reviewers who are displeased with his risk taking are falsly calling this movie trash. It is an edgy and poignant perspective on a sensative topic, but it is tastefully done. Watch Groupers without bringing your own baggage and you will enjoy it as art instead of a personnel threat.

This movie was fun in parts, had better than the theatre student acting I've seen in many other B movies and had memorable scenes. Though I wasn't in love with the writing, it worked for the quirky characters who weren't part of the movie's A story. It wasn't quite the hidden gem I look for but I appreciate what was accomplished with what the movie makers had.

The movie is shot beautifully, the acting is great, and the plot while not for everyone it's original and interesting. I did have problems with the Orin character which was the only bad part of the movie that has fun and interesting characters all over. Give it a shot, I don't think you will regret it.

This movie is unpredictable and funny. It is a little harsh in spots, but, definitely, it is different. I hope to see more from this director. I would like to see what he could do with a budget and known actors.