Review of TiMER (2009) by Moe E — 26 Jan 2011

Great idea for a movie: take the "do you want to know when you die" question and convert it to "do you want to know when you'll fall in love?" Some nice romance and some humor help complete a pretty solid indie-flick.

The device is a bracelet of sorts that goes into the wrist of the buyer. Some divine intervention is the only possible way to explain this as no science could, but that's cool. The way fiction is supposed to be done: one fictional hypothetic and everything else stays real. If the wearer's destined lover also has a Timer, both clocks would start counting down a meeting date. If one has not purchased a timer, the device remains blank.

Damn good concept that raises many questions. What if you've already met the perfect one before buying the device, etc. And is this better than dating? How about the experience of dating even when it turns out bad? And there goes spontaneity. Part of the magic of attraction lies in the unknown. See the girl at the gym. Will I see her again? Will I ever talk to her? Personally, I like the feeling of not knowing, and glancing at her wrist and seeing a certain date would be quite disappointing. Finally, isn't this like an arranged marriage, especially for young people who are told they will love this person but don't even know them?

It would be a great after-bar chat, but that aside, not bad movie. Caulfield is sometimes adorable and a good match for Amedori. Borth is already a little sexy, but her sassy mouth and attitude make her hot as hell. When she shows a sensitive side as well, watch out! Harrington is good as well in a limited role.

As per usual, an indie turns out to be a great romantic comedy. Great, original concept and carried out well. There are a few big-budget romcoms that work well, but most of the best I've seen lean towards the smaller budget. This is definitely a good one.