SOOS (which we can use as a handy abbreviation for the funny but somewhat grandiose full title) is an entirely unique film that dances magnificently between outright buddy comedy, indie crime thriller, and beautiful relationship drama. Deep down it's a film about friendship, and the importance of finding people who love us for our true selves.
The mental health of our main characters is troubling, and while they are capable of doing some pretty bad (and generally misguided) things, we are assured early and often that they are good people. Carson Mell's performance is effortless, hilarious, and oftentimes stressful to watch: a well-meaning man unhinged, impoverished, and facing the possible loss of the one thing he has and holds most dear-his best friend Andy. Al Di as Andy is a revelation, naturalistic and sincere, hilarious and charming. While you might need to turn the subtitles on for a few line deliveries, once you know (and consider) what he's saying, it becomes clear just how complicated this man is, and how deeply intertwined these two 'stallions' truly are.
With a solid number of memorable comedic set pieces (picking up women at the mall, post-9/11 "Joyist" donut antics, every interaction between "beautiful Bill" and Bonnie, Bill going 'wolf man' then imagining his shape, and the tense-yet-funny extended scene with Sam in a motel room, to name just a few), and plenty of heart to keep you invested, SOOS is a new favorite movie I expect will only improve the more I watch. Tim Heidecker also gets a shoutout, as a continual presence in fascinating, top tier indie comedy. A true supporter and benefactor of the arts.
5 stars, 10/10 rating. Loved this movie.
