Together - Unexpected and Bold

 

Rent it on Apple TV and Amazon. 

    In March, I reviewed a film titled Locked Down: the story of a couple doing their best to deal with England's 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. It was a solid piece of work with sturdy performances, a well-delivered observation on the stress induced by the pandemic, and a clever commentary on what makes a good silver lining in times of crisis. If you haven't seen it yet, I still recommend you check it out. It's still streaming on HBO Max (I also still recommend signing up for that wonderful service). 

    Today's subject, Together, is incredibly similar to Locked Down in that it's also a story about a couple in England doing what they can to survive the COVID-19 lockdown. However, what set's it apart is twofold: its heavier dramatic presentation (along with plenty of levity for proper balance) and its unusual theatrical delivery. As in this could very easily be presented on stage with little to no changes to the script. Which, in this particular case, is actually a good thing. At least in my opinion. 

    Together presents itself as a kind of self-aware film. Rather than present the situation in a traditional film-narrative style where the characters never address the camera, the characters in Together treat the camera like a camera. As in, they speak directly to the lens, thus to the audience. 

    For something this unusual, the script needs to be sharp, and the situation must be enticing. Together succeeds in having both qualities. 

    The writing is snappy and witty, with natural-sounding dialogue spoken by two incredibly talented actors who carry the entire film on their shoulders. Both the humor and the drama come from their performances, and they never feel hokey or forced. 

    Another aspect of Together that sets it apart from Locked Down is its camera language. The vast majority of the film is presented in long continuous takes allowing the performances to shine through brighter than normal. 

    The film does not shy away from the heavier implications of its story. Occasionally the film will stop to present a few facts about the pandemic. There are a few scenes in which the characters present their feelings on how it has been handled, including an incredibly well-performed monologue about the meaning of the word "exponential" and how it pertains to the pandemic in a way I hadn't considered before. 

    Together is an unusual film with an unorthodox presentational style that is entertaining, informative, and heartfelt. While some may argue that it may be a bit too soon to make films recapping the year from hell that was 2020, Together argues otherwise with a solid and relevant case. It's a fascinating watch with wonderful performances and crisp writing that deserves your attention. 

    Check it out. 

Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm; thank you all for reading.