Review of Good Time (2017) by Ryan B — 07 Oct 2017

For the longest time, I've felt that Robert Pattinson was a terrific actor hindered by terrible scripts and sloppy writing. With Good Time, it places him in extremely unfamiliar territory, and Pattinson performs with flying colors. As the main (and essentially only) lead character, the film follows his sometimes collected, yet manic character into the New York night as he tries to find a solution to what he sees as his brother's inevitable demise in prison. His dubious character takes viewers on an adventure that spans a full night, jumping from one dreadful dwelling to another.

In accompaniment, we seldom get a moment's rest as the soundtrack hisses and blares moody and atmospheric music throughout. Whether it be tension, panic or any other distressing notion, Good Time wants you to feel like it's in an against-all-odds situation, and it doesn't ever shy away from letting that feeling escape. The film's blend of pulse-pounding sound, sporadic characters, and sense of unpredictability is certain to cause a bit of discomfort, but not without purpose.

Over the course of the 100 minute runtime, the film takes some creative risks by loosely setting up the plot and using it more as a backdrop, rather than a backbone to its entirety. This isn't a heist movie by any means. Pattinson's unrelenting bravado and distorted sense of righteousness are the real stars of the show.

Beginning immediately with its title, Good Time is deceptive through and through. Characters warp and twist in foul ways when under desperation, and the results aren't always pretty. While Good Time is exactly that-a good time-it isn't one that comes lightly. It isn't easy to digest, but is unique enough to warrant a fair amount of consideration towards watching.