Barefoot - A Movie Review

Are you really going to go barefoot?

Walking into theaters in 2014, Barefoot is a story about a man who is in a tough spot. Lying to his rich family that he’ll bring a date to his brother's wedding, a patient from the psychiatric hospital he works in escapes. Taking her to the wedding, Jay only discovers that Daisy has been isolated her entire life.

Adventure movies never get old. Thinking that it was going to fall under the usual cliches, this movie surprised me. Barefoot does something different to a trope that has been used across many films. People are more than what they’ve been labeled as.

Evan Rachel Wood was a delight. Finding the right innocence and vulnerability, I liked how she interpreted Daisy. She had the right comedic timing for most of her lines. I wanted to give her a big hug so many times. With Jay’s help, Daisy learns that she is more capable of herself than expected.

Not interested in taking life seriously, Scott Speedman also had a motivating approach to his role. Aside from his gambling habits, getting into trouble, and his terse relationship with his family, Jay means well. Depending on the person, he does care. I like how the film recognizes that.

Wood and Speedsman were great together. Both had fun in their roles. I laughed at Jay’s reactions whenever Daisy said something crazy. You never know what you are going to learn from anyone you meet. Listen carefully.

Barefoot has two storylines. I expected the film to spend a long time on the ‘fake girlfriend at the family wedding’ scenario. Thankfully, it does not. The wedding is only a little part so we can focus on Jay and Daisy’s relationship. That is the core.

Filling in memorable roles as Jay’s family and ensemble, Treat Williams, Kate Burton, J. Omar Castro, David Jensen, Jacqueline Flemming, and more were excellent. Shoutout goes to the security guard for checking in on Daisy. Every role makes a big impact no matter small it is.

Special mention goes out to J.K. Simmons. As a doctor, Simmons dictated his tone and behavior splendidly. For example, when talking to Jay, he is commanding and serious. But when speaking to Daisy, Dr. Bertleman is kind and cautious. That’s a positive reflection of a doctor.

I like the way Andrew Fleming dictated the story. There’s more to a person than one thinks. Fleming did a wonderful job in his direction, most notably in how he conducted the road travel sequences. This was his main area of focus instead of spending time on what else could go wrong on the plane ride or with the party.

Fleming picked good choices for all locations. Most of the film is spent on the road and in nature. Briefly spending time in this beautiful mansion surrounded by gorgeous decorations and pricely gowns, Barefoot tests viewers on what is more important. It doesn’t matter how you spend your life, but you should be happy with what appeals to you.

Have you ever thought about going barefoot for a day? Daisy walking around barefoot was unique addition. Shoes are very important, but once in a while, I like to go barefoot. Not outside, but it says something about a person’s strength.

It’s a predictable film, but it’s still worth checking out. II was invested enough to see how things would play out. You feel connected. The film is satisfyingly charming to make you smile.

Do not overlook this film. Put Barefoot on your list and enjoy it.