Direction: Jonathan Wysocki
Country: USA
The refreshing if somewhat obvious comedy-drama Dramarama takes the coming-of-age topic to a positive payoff, going from silly at the kick-off to genuinely affecting, without ever seek sentimental manipulation. The feature debut by Jonathan Wysocki, who demonstrates a gentle sensibility and firm hand in making movies, chisels away the cynicism and goes directly at the heart while depicting a group of Californian theater students gathered for a murder mystery slumber party before departing to college. None of these persons dated anyone in the last four years of high school.
The sensitive Gene (Nick Pugliese) has important confessions to make that may upset his Catholic buddies; the whimsical Rose (Anna Grace Barlow) debates with the observant Amy (Danielle Kay) the uncomfortable situations that weakened their relationship; the puritanical Claire (Megan Suri) has a secret crush on one of her buddies; and the lively Oscar (Nico Greetham) seems to be hiding something that embarrasses him.Their game is interrupted by JD (Zak Henri), a presumptuous and judgmental colleague who appear unexpectedly to deliver pizzas.
The movie captures the youngsters’ childish side but also their ability to deal with obstacles and insecurities. It will appeal to teens because it understands, sympathizes and ultimately attenuates their problems by valuing true friendship. In the end, I was not blown away but was satisfied enough with the outcomes of a film made appealing by the charm of its story and the sensitive talents of its actors.
