Before I begin, I need to note that while I had nothing to do with the producing, writing, or directing of this film, I did supply my voice for a five second segment where I am a radio DJ in the background of one scene. Ok, now that that connection and disclaimer has been made:
While watching this film for the first time today, I was very happily surprised. It's easy to default to lower expectations of independent films in terms of the aspects of filmmaking that multi-million dollar budgets make possible. This film is a counterbalance to those expectations. The acting is solid throughout, with any script/acting/edit issues inconsequential and barely noticeable. I found myself looking for them, which makes me a bad movie watcher, not a good watcher of a bad movie! I liked the entire film.
Adam Assad packs more political angles, ideas, and clear thinking opinions into a small handful of scenes than many news shows do in prime internet time on CNN or Foxnews. The result, without giving anything away, is a movie which works on multiple levels: as an indie narrative, and as a screenshot into multiple angles of American political life. As a result, it would be very easy to launch conversations around any or all of the characters and their back stories.
Solid performances from all the actors. Great music. Good editing overall. We could pick apart the tiny things here and there but literally that would be just for conversation if one chose to nitpick. And there's no reason to because things like character arcs and tension and acting were there. I am sure those elements will only improve with his next film and his next after that.
Looking forward to seeing what comes next from Adam and I hope I get to revise my role as radio commentator, hopefully next time for more than five seconds!