Review of I Melt with You (2011) by James C — 15 Nov 2012

Rarely have I disagreed so vehemently with both audiences and critics over the worth of a film. I was enthralled by the lovely, ballsy, ultimately honest and painful portrayal of these characters and their dark spiral into oblivion.

In retrospect I have to wonder if the intensely negative reaction by critics (who routinely rate formulaic animated regurgitation at 75% plus) isn't in fact driven by how close this film cuts to the heart of the matter.

Much of the feedback seemed to centre on the disgust many viewers felt at the choices the characters made, which is odd, since the portrayal of said choices is left morally neutral. Now that this has shown up on Netflix I would encourage the thoughtful and emotionally mature among you to give this film a chance.

If you are expecting Entourage forget it...this is a movie about loss, about losing your way and about the power of social proof. If there is one sticking point for me it was in trying to believe in four men who share a bond this intense across a generation.

But the movie is beautifully shot, features great music, strong acting, and aside from the odd chase scene in the finale is well scripted and reasonably paced. A hidden gem in my mind.