I Love You Forever

There are so many red flags right from the start. It's a little too obvious. The two other characters are fine in their roles and I don't mind the main actress but the villain is a pathetic sociopath in the most obvious ways, it's not even a movie. You failed with the plot. It was all there and you messed it up director.

And, unfortunately, it is because I have firsthand experience in this. I had to walk away a few times to gather myself. Also, I know he's a nepo baby but I really like Ray Nicholson's acting overall. He has that sinister look that mirrors his dad's and it works well for him.

Hope to see him in more movies.

Cazzie David and Elisa Kalani direct and write this dramatic comedy about psychological abuse in relationships. They do so in a dark and ironic way-daring, yes, but perhaps not entirely successful.

Starring Sofia Black-D'Ellia, Ray Nicholson, Jon Rudnitsky, and Cazzie David herself, it follows a disillusioned law student who plunges into what appears to be the true romantic relationship she hoped for. Things slowly change when they begin to discover the true personality behind her ideal man.

The film is daring and poignant, perhaps its greatest strength. However, when it shifts to a deeper drama, it takes on greater force within what seemed to be just another romantic comedy. The decisions are risky and succeed in delivering something we weren't entirely expecting, but in trying to contain its own scale, its final decisions about what we'd been presented with end up leaving us somewhat uncomfortable. The point is understood, but perhaps as viewers, we're not entirely prepared for that sudden shift. In any case, this is a very well-directed and well-written film, which makes it easy to follow. Although we can't overlook the fact that it has flaws that weaken its power, the final result is ultimately quite pleasing.

It's a film that relies heavily on its two leads, especially Sofia Black-D'Ellia, who fully embodies the nuances of her character and the anguish she occasionally experiences within. Ray Nicholson, meanwhile, proves he's the son of the great Jack, and talent runs in his veins, especially when it comes to a role like the one he delivers.

An interesting offering that has some heartfelt moments and others that are somewhat forced, but all in all, it offers a decent film worth giving a chance. It's sharp and ironic, an interesting combination, in times when everything is perhaps more sensitive, but the film's journey to reveal the toxicity of relationships is appreciated.

As "I Love You Forever" (2024 release; 89 min.) opens, Mackenzie attend the birthday party of her friend Ally, and there she strikes up a conversation with a guy named Finn. Finn is super-charming, and Mackenzie is intrigued. At this point we are 10 min into the movie.

Couple of comments: this is written and directed by Cazzie David and Elisa Kalani (both from "Eighty-Sixed"). And for good measure Cazzie also pays the role of Ally. Without going into any of the plot's details, the movie starts slowly and then when the relationship starts to sour, the transformation is as quickly as it is disturbing. Ray Nicholson (son of Jack) is outstanding as Finn, playing a deeply dislikeable character (his dad will approve!). During some of these scenes, I thought to myself "this is in essence a "feel-bad" movie, but it's so well made!" To be honest, I think Ray Nicholson needs to diversify upcoming roles, as otherwise he risks getting stereotyped in a same or similar role. Please note that Diabolo Cody is credited as a Producer, and that makes perfect sense to me.

"I Love You Forever" premiered at the 2024 SXSW film fest, yes over a year ago. I don't recall whether it played in US theaters at all. Regardless, it's now streaming on Netflix, where I caught it the other night. The movie is currently rated 80% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, which feels a bit generous to me. It is a "feel-bad" movie after all. If you like another take on "modern relationships", I'd readily suggest you check it out and draw your own conclusion.

...please end it ASAP. Whether it's your current relationship or that of a friend or family member, it is unhealthy. At the very least, both parties need therapy. If it's not your own relationship, please warn them and/or recommend this movie.

THE MOVIE (tw: abuse/dv): This felt a little too familiar for me, as someone that has experienced emotional abuse, but imo that's a testament to the great writing/directing. I was very impressed by how well they portrayed this problematic personality. It's so important to spotlight stories like these, so that people can recognize problematic personalities and emotional abuse before it escalates. I love the directors' take on this issue and their insistence to get this story out there despite the adversity. We need more movies like this. Thank you.

To the people calling it a bad movie due to the high intensity, unrealistic story, or lack of plot: please just be thankful that you have not experienced a person like this. You can be aware of the warning signs and help others from experiencing this trauma.