'Actual People' Movie Review

The film's protagonist, Riley, is a 22-year-old who is struggling to come to terms with the end of her college days and the reality of adulthood that awaits her. The movie captures the universal fear and confusion that many newly minted college graduates face as they are thrust into the real world.

Actual People is shot in a mumblecore naturalism style, with Riley's post-grad angst being depicted in a restrained manner. The film's tone aspires to be similar to that of "Frances Ha" or "Tiny Furniture" but with a focus on the search for "real people" that the title alludes to. However, the movie's low budget and amateurish qualities tend to expose the film's weaknesses. Some scenes may not be particularly compelling, and the acting may be inconsistent at times.

The film's exploration of Asian American identity is mostly gestural and not particularly profound. However, the second half of the film has moments of good writing. Overall, Actual People offers a glimpse into the post-graduation struggles of a young adult and the search for one's identity and purpose in life. It may not be a polished cinematic masterpiece, but it has moments of insight and promise.

Despite its flaws, Actual People offers a relatable and realistic portrayal of the post-graduation experience. The film does a great job of capturing the feeling of being lost and aimless which many young adults can relate to. The protagonist, Riley, is a relatable character who is struggling to find her place in the world, and her journey is one that many viewers will be able to connect with.

One of the film's strengths is its ability to convey the feeling of uncertainty and confusion that comes with transitioning into adulthood. The scene where Riley is abruptly told by her therapist that their final session is over is particularly poignant, as it highlights the suddenness and unpreparedness that many graduates feel when they leave school.

Actual People also touches on the theme of identity and belonging, with Riley's search for "real people" serving as a metaphor for her search for her place in the world. The film's exploration of Asian American identity may not be particularly deep, but it does offer a glimpse into the complexities of navigating one's identity in a world that often pigeonholes and stereotypes people based on their ethnicity.

In addition to its relatable story and themes, Actual People also features strong cinematography and production design. The film's use of natural lighting and handheld camera work creates a sense of realism and intimacy, making the viewer feel like they are right there with Riley on her journey. The film's art direction and costume design also do a great job of capturing the feeling of being in college and the nostalgia of leaving it behind.

Furthermore, the film's soundtrack and original score also add to the overall atmosphere and tone of the film. Its music choice is perfect for the film's tone, providing a sense of nostalgia and melancholy that complements the story and characters.

Actual People also has a strong message about the importance of mental health, and it's worth noting that the film's depiction of therapy is very accurate and realistic. It highlights the importance of seeking professional help and support when dealing with mental health issues and gives a sense of empathy for the protagonist's struggles.

Actual People is a film that offers a relatable and realistic portrayal of the post-graduation experience, it has a strong message about the importance of mental health, and its the cinematography, production design, soundtrack, and original score are also noteworthy. This film showcases the potential of its writer, director, and star, Kit Zauhar, and it's a film that has something to offer any viewer who has ever struggled with the transition from college to adulthood.

Conclusion

Actual People is a film that offers a relatable and realistic portrayal of the post-graduation experience. It may have its flaws, but it captures the feeling of uncertainty and confusion that many young adults face as they transition into adulthood. The film's exploration of identity and belonging adds depth to the story and makes it a thought-provoking watch. Despite its low-budget nature, Actual People is a promising debut film that showcases the potential of its writer, director, and star, Kit Zauhar.

My Rating - 2/5