The challenges of making a realistic film about a relationship near it's end are considerable. Capturing the truth means showing a lot of mess. And when you have mess, you run the risk of making the characters so flawed, they become unlikable or unwatchable. But the filmmakers here manage to pull off the balancing act. These characters are real and we feel their pain. But they also remain relatable throughout. Flawed, but always very human. Add to this the movie-making challenge of telling this compelling tale in one, unbroken 97 minute shot. Not easy! Films like Hitchock's Rope and Sam Mendes' 1917 (both single take concepts) are good films. But their energy can drag at times, as cinematic energy is often created through editing. But this movie does a remarkable job of keeping the energy up in that same difficult single-take technique. I think this is achieved by the terrific acting and the director's sure hand. There's much to celebrate in This is Your Song. It's absolutely worth checking out!
12 Reviews
A surreal theatrical experience
don-3141613 November 2023
Attending the LA premiere of THIS IS YOUR SONG proved to be an unexpected yet enriching cinematic voyage. Unacquainted with much beyond the trailer and the promising directorial finesse of Hassan Said, the film unfolded as a poignant reminder of the profound impact storytelling can have on the expansive canvas of cinema. An ode to character-driven dramas, THIS IS YOUR SONG emerges not just as a film but as a masterful composition, reverently tipping its hat to the cinematic classics while confidently charting a contemporary narrative course.
The performances, particularly from the debut leads, are a revelation-an emotive symphony that oscillates between celestial highs and gut-wrenching lows. The unexplored realms of emotion, traversed effortlessly by these first-time actors, lend the film a rare authenticity.
Beyond its narrative prowess, THIS IS YOUR SONG transcends the confines of mere Oscar-worthy recognition. It stands as a courageous plea in an industry that often sidesteps original, risk-taking auteurs, carving its own niche in the modern Hollywood landscape.
Yet, the film's triumph extends beyond narrative and performances. It resuscitates the collective theater experience, elevating it beyond mere nostalgia into a vibrant testament to the enduring power of storytelling on the grand screen.
In moments that left me trembling, THIS IS YOUR SONG etched a visceral cinematic experience rarely encountered in recent memory. Its poignant portrayal of love, both gained and lost, resonates profoundly, leaving an enduring imprint. Far more than a gem, this cinematic marvel is a triumph-an invitation to celebrate ingenuity and embrace the inherent risks that define true artistry.
The performances, particularly from the debut leads, are a revelation-an emotive symphony that oscillates between celestial highs and gut-wrenching lows. The unexplored realms of emotion, traversed effortlessly by these first-time actors, lend the film a rare authenticity.
Beyond its narrative prowess, THIS IS YOUR SONG transcends the confines of mere Oscar-worthy recognition. It stands as a courageous plea in an industry that often sidesteps original, risk-taking auteurs, carving its own niche in the modern Hollywood landscape.
Yet, the film's triumph extends beyond narrative and performances. It resuscitates the collective theater experience, elevating it beyond mere nostalgia into a vibrant testament to the enduring power of storytelling on the grand screen.
In moments that left me trembling, THIS IS YOUR SONG etched a visceral cinematic experience rarely encountered in recent memory. Its poignant portrayal of love, both gained and lost, resonates profoundly, leaving an enduring imprint. Far more than a gem, this cinematic marvel is a triumph-an invitation to celebrate ingenuity and embrace the inherent risks that define true artistry.
"This Is Your Song" skillfully navigates a delicate balance.
oliviaphilip12 November 2023
Crafting a genuine portrayal of a relationship on the brink of its end presents substantial challenges. The authenticity required often exposes the messy aspects of human connections, risking the portrayal of characters as too flawed and consequently unlikable or unrelatable. However, the filmmakers of "This Is Your Song" skillfully navigate this delicate balance. The characters, though flawed, remain authentically human, and their pain resonates, creating a relatable narrative throughout. In essence, "This Is Your Song" offers much to applaud. The film is a testament to the filmmakers' ability to maintain a captivating narrative within the challenging constraints of a single-take technique. Without a doubt, it's a movie that deserves to be experienced.
beautifully made drama that will stay with you longer after the credits are over
andrewwalshfilms16 January 2024
Warning: Spoilers
This Is Your Song is an emotionally charged drama directed by Hassan Said about two people trying to stay together against impossible odds.
Taking place in San Francisco we follow lovers Jules (Briana Walsh) and James (Jordan Potch) on the evening of their seventh wedding anniversary.
Failed beatnik writer James is getting sick of literally being a starving artist and is eager to embrace conformity and work in the corporate world while Actor Jules seems obsessed with holding onto her romantic ideals and past with a vice like grip while everything- her career, her friends, the city they live in and her relationship are all changing around her and not necessarily for the better.
The films cinematography all shot effortlessly in one single take reminded me of complex films like "Birdman" and "The Revevant" by director Alejandro G. Iñárritu.
I'm pretty sure Hassan had 1 percent of the manpower resources and funding that Alejandro G. Iñárritu has access too but still holds up beautifully.
The one take approach is very effective as the film grabs you by the neck and drags into this world where the emotional stakes are raising every second and every single word that comes out of the actors mouths hit hard.
This Is Your Song is truly a film about how difficult it can be to love someone unconditionally and how change is inevitable and we must embrace it and adapt in order to move forward. Even when it hurts.
Taking place in San Francisco we follow lovers Jules (Briana Walsh) and James (Jordan Potch) on the evening of their seventh wedding anniversary.
Failed beatnik writer James is getting sick of literally being a starving artist and is eager to embrace conformity and work in the corporate world while Actor Jules seems obsessed with holding onto her romantic ideals and past with a vice like grip while everything- her career, her friends, the city they live in and her relationship are all changing around her and not necessarily for the better.
The films cinematography all shot effortlessly in one single take reminded me of complex films like "Birdman" and "The Revevant" by director Alejandro G. Iñárritu.
I'm pretty sure Hassan had 1 percent of the manpower resources and funding that Alejandro G. Iñárritu has access too but still holds up beautifully.
The one take approach is very effective as the film grabs you by the neck and drags into this world where the emotional stakes are raising every second and every single word that comes out of the actors mouths hit hard.
This Is Your Song is truly a film about how difficult it can be to love someone unconditionally and how change is inevitable and we must embrace it and adapt in order to move forward. Even when it hurts.
Simply terrific!
craigahrens28 January 2024
Holy cow! This film is just exceptional! Lets begin with the acting because if that sucks we're all done right??!! The two leads were out of this world incredibly good. Their chemistry was sensational. This is what held me and kept me glued in. Great casting for sure, my hats off to the casting director. This is wonderful storytelling on every level. Bravo to writer/director Hassan Said! I found zero flat spots in this gem of a film. Loved the pacing it moved along at a really nice pace. Clearly this film gets a thumbs up from me. Well done folks! You should all be very proud of yourselves on this very fine film you all have produced!!
For the melodrama lovers
catchengery14 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
A melodramatic look at a truly toxic dysfunctional relationship, ripe with dialogue that seems fit for the stage. The indulgency featured here is beyond uncomfortable, which seems to be the objective. Props to cast and crew to the commitment and ferver required to make a drama of this subject and length. Might be triggering to anyone who has been through any domestic violence.
I liked the lighting and thought the camera work was really great. The opening and end had some fun moments that hooked me in and made me want to visit San Fran. I would definitely recommend this movie to someone wanting to watch a messed up relationship drama.
I liked the lighting and thought the camera work was really great. The opening and end had some fun moments that hooked me in and made me want to visit San Fran. I would definitely recommend this movie to someone wanting to watch a messed up relationship drama.
Sever Year itch??/
ath062920 November 2023
This is Your Song tells the story of Jules (Briana Walsh) and James (Jordan Potch) on the night of their seven-year wedding anniversary. While the relationship is on the rocks Walsh and Potch create flawed yet likable characters. The costuming and set design are perfect for setting the mood and tone in this dark and gritty film. The camera work makes you feel like a voyeur through the passionate fight and make-up scenes. The highs and lows of the relationship are well-depicted through the music choices.
Both in lighting and theme, this story is reminiscent of the movie Biue Valentine, but it is unique. The way the director expresses the love and hurt that each has felt in the relationship keeps the viewer tuned in to see what will happen.
My one complaint is that the lighting made it difficult to read the actors' expressions during highly emotional scenes.
I loved the references to San Francisco both verbally and by the visual montage.
While the story is a slow burn it is worth seeing all the way to the end.
Both in lighting and theme, this story is reminiscent of the movie Biue Valentine, but it is unique. The way the director expresses the love and hurt that each has felt in the relationship keeps the viewer tuned in to see what will happen.
My one complaint is that the lighting made it difficult to read the actors' expressions during highly emotional scenes.
I loved the references to San Francisco both verbally and by the visual montage.
While the story is a slow burn it is worth seeing all the way to the end.
The characters are flawed but still feel like real people. I like that!
fredunderland25 January 2024
"This Is Your Song," does a great job showing a relationship that's falling apart. It's not easy to make it feel real without making the characters seem too flawed and unlikeable. But the filmmakers handle it well. The characters are flawed but still feel like real people, and their pain is something many of us can relate to. The movie is impressive because it tells the whole story in what seems to be one continuous shot. I don't remember ever seeing a movie pull this off. The indie down & dirty feel of the movie is in part, what I liked most about it. This is not Hollywood but It is definitely a movie worth watching.
Intense
idealityentertainment3 March 2024
The performances in this film were amazing. This was a compelling story, of a semi happily married couple who are at a cross roads of continuing their quests of pursuing their dreams. The dynamic often shifts between their love and affection, and their turbulent resentment towards one another. The conflict is ongoing, and the viewer if left wondering if they will ever find some resolve. I was fascinated by the undertones, the lighting was epic. The story deals with the modern era of how the creative arts are now being compromised by the growing demand to earn a living in this hyper-capitalistic environment today.
Emotional journey
sallycoffeecup11 April 2024
Prepare to be swept away on an emotional journey with "This Is Your Song." This film isn't just a viewing experience; it's a visceral immersion into the complexities of relationships and love.
What sets "This Is Your Song" apart is its daring use of continuous shots and minimal cuts, which seamlessly guide the audience through the unfolding drama as if we're right there in the room with the characters. As we witness the turbulent relationship at the film's core, we're compelled to ponder timeless questions: Should love conquer all? Can we overlook our partner's flaws? And when ambition clashes with affection, what sacrifices are we willing to make?
Against the backdrop of a changing San Francisco, where gentrification and technology redefine the cityscape, "This Is Your Song" resonates as a film of our time while paying homage to classics like "A Streetcar Named Desire." It delves deep into the essence of human connection, challenging us to confront the complexities of intimacy and the sacrifices it demands.
Central to the film's success are the captivating performances of Briana Walsh and Jordan Potch. Their portrayal of a couple teetering on the brink of dissolution is nothing short of mesmerizing, oscillating between moments of vulnerability and strength with a nuanced finesse that speaks volumes. It's evident that their chemistry was honed through meticulous rehearsal, resulting in a captivating on-screen dynamic that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
In "This Is Your Song," every frame is a testament to the power of storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on the heart long after the credits roll. Whether you're a romantic at heart or a cinephile seeking thought-provoking narrative, this film is an absolute must-see. So, surrender to its spellbinding charm and prepare to be moved, inspired, and thoroughly captivated.
What sets "This Is Your Song" apart is its daring use of continuous shots and minimal cuts, which seamlessly guide the audience through the unfolding drama as if we're right there in the room with the characters. As we witness the turbulent relationship at the film's core, we're compelled to ponder timeless questions: Should love conquer all? Can we overlook our partner's flaws? And when ambition clashes with affection, what sacrifices are we willing to make?
Against the backdrop of a changing San Francisco, where gentrification and technology redefine the cityscape, "This Is Your Song" resonates as a film of our time while paying homage to classics like "A Streetcar Named Desire." It delves deep into the essence of human connection, challenging us to confront the complexities of intimacy and the sacrifices it demands.
Central to the film's success are the captivating performances of Briana Walsh and Jordan Potch. Their portrayal of a couple teetering on the brink of dissolution is nothing short of mesmerizing, oscillating between moments of vulnerability and strength with a nuanced finesse that speaks volumes. It's evident that their chemistry was honed through meticulous rehearsal, resulting in a captivating on-screen dynamic that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
In "This Is Your Song," every frame is a testament to the power of storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on the heart long after the credits roll. Whether you're a romantic at heart or a cinephile seeking thought-provoking narrative, this film is an absolute must-see. So, surrender to its spellbinding charm and prepare to be moved, inspired, and thoroughly captivated.
Beatiful, Powerful Relationship Drama
JeromeV796316 March 2024
For an independent feature film, this was technically and creatively one of the most impressive movies I've ever seen. I don't know how they pulled it off. Huge kudos to Director Hassan Said and DP Peggy Peralta. The style of the movie is reminiscent of Inarritu's "Birdman" in that nearly the entire story is told with what feels like a single continuous camera shot. This means the lead actors (talented Briana Walsh and Jordan Potch) had to memorize and perform for long stretches at a time. It also means the normal control a director uses to moderate pacing (via editing) is not in evidence - nor is it needed. A really beautiful journey into the best/worst aspects of a multi-year relationship between two artistic lovers. The musical score by Brad Fischer is excellent. I cannot recommend this movie enough. There may be an overabundance of "I love you/I hate you" duality throughout, but that is ultimately what the movie explores. See it!
Dramatic, Emotionally-moving, and Impressive
photo-859-4016317 March 2024
Welcome back real filmmaking, I thought while watching this film. It's an impressive cinematic achievement since most of the story is done in two long takes. But this impressive feat still serves the story not the other way around. The story focuses on a relationship between two emotionally-scarred and passionate artists. Their Bohemian dreams haven't panned out the way they were expecting and it is time to take stock of their relationship. Briana Walsh and Jordan Potch are excellent in the emotional tug of war between their characters. You can see their desires, love, passion, and pathos play out in dialogue reminiscent of classic American dramatists like Edward Albee, Tennessee Williams, and Arthur Miller. This film has a classic feel to it in its lighting and set design. The long takes never feel stagey or call too much attention to themselves because of the capable camerawork and the focused direction of the director, Hassan Said. How he blocks a scene and the subsequent changes in lighting makes this cinematic, not just a theatrical experience. But it's the two characters that make this film a moving experience. They embody what Kerouac would call mad to to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time. Their emotions turn on and off like the neon street signs outside their windows. If you enjoy classic films, smart dialogue, and innovative filmmaking, this is a film to watch.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
