86 Melrose Avenue

In this spectacular, emotional spin on a heist film, we are able to see a rare ensemble film that exposes the lives and interconnectedness of all characters involved. In a time of such great divide it it exposes how very necessary it is for viewers to nurture their empathy and recognize that everyone has a story that brings them to the present moment. Masterfully shot and brilliantly executed, director Lili Matta gives viewers something that is both entertaining and introspective. There were a few cliches that detracted from spectacular flow of the film but overall it was extremely well done. Great filmmaking. Important message.

So I recently had the opportunity to watch 86 Melrose Avenue, and the experience left me deeply moved. This film, directed by Lili Matta a great director, is a powerful exploration of human emotion, trauma, and connection. Set in an art gallery in Los Angeles, the story takes a dramatic turn when an ex-Marine, Travis, takes a group of people hostage. What unfolds is not just a tense situation but a profound journey into the hearts of the characters.

As I watched the film, I found myself becoming increasingly invested in the characters. Each one is crafted with such depth and vulnerability that it's impossible not to feel a connection. Dade Elza's portrayal of Travis, a man struggling with PTSD, is particularly compelling. His performance brought tears to my eyes as I witnessed the pain and desperation that drove him to such extreme actions. Anastasia Antonia's character, Nadia, added a sense of warmth and hope to the narrative, making the emotional highs and lows even more impactful.

86 Melrose Avenue is an accurate portrayal of what it is like in living with PTSD as cross culturalism all comes to ahead at an art gallery in Los Angeles.

The store is quite human especially when Avi (Gregory Zarian) and Nadia (Anastsia Antonia) pasts cross paths while held at gun point due to a former military person who still has not faced his demons from his time at war overseas.

Anyone that has suffered trauma will be deeply engulfed in the story and anyone looking to understand PTSD from a human standpoint will finally have an idea of the internal suffering so any people go through on a daily basis.

Great sound track from the first beat! I loved that about this movie. It really kept me going.. When you realize the subject matter the movie is addressing, mental health, it's really engaging and interesting to see how each character's past has impacted who they are. There's some great acting and cinematography happening here too.

Really enjoyed the film and the important issues it tackled especially in today's day and age...Great job!