Before We Go - A Movie Review

What do you think would happen if I called my past self on the phone?

Traveling to New York City in 2014, Before We Go is about two strangers who meet one night. Each trying to get back home, Nick and Brooke learn about one another. In the little time they have, they help solve one another’s issues and insecurities.

A lot can happen in one night. This is one of my favorite concepts. Before We Go divulges into a fun night between two strangers. You never know who is going to play a significant part in your life, even if it’s one night.

Chris Evans and Alice Eve do an excellent job with the dynamic of their characters. Having one night to spend with each other as total strangers, they help try and solve issues. Both unsure of their destinations or what they want, viewers see a bit of themselves in these characters.

Nick and Brooke are not proud of some of their decisions. Both studied their motivations. They also wanted to be authentic. Since his character played the trumpet, Evens studied how to play one. It was difficult, but he learned something about himself.

You never know who you will come across. Emma Fitzpatrick, John Cullum, Mark Kassen, Daniel Spink, and many others in small roles. There is no such thing as a small part. Every character has an impact on the story. Even for a minute or, just a voice heard on the phone.

This film reminds me of another film series starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy. As the basis of those films, Before We Go is all about dialogue. One can have a conversation about anything no matter the location.

My favorite scene in the film is when they play around and call themselves on the phone in the past. I liked the scenarios writers came up with. Since the story takes place in one evening, the pair travel around to hotels, talk on the phone to significant others, and worry about getting to their destinations on time. There’s a conflict.

The only side story that I did not find necessary was the fortune teller. It’s a funny scene, but it didn’t add much to the film.

Taking place in New York City, we all have a different definition of what this busy location means to us. While it's known for its entertainment and opportunity, New York also has its dark moments. You never know what can happen. It’s not a good idea to be alone, but if you are, safe and watch out for yourself.

When not acting as his character, Chris Evans did an excellent job in his direction. In his directorial debut, he planned out good tracking shots along with the cinematography of the city. The glowing lights in the background were a beautiful effect. Directing the film made him have a better understanding of his character.

Dialogue is the key element in Before We Go. Conversations are studied well. The duo has memorable conversations. I felt the urgency of the situation.

Never be afraid to go on an adventure. Make your life what you want it to be. Running from your problems is not the answer. A takeaway from Before We Go that made me think is that we shouldn’t wait for a sign to do the things we want. Things happen for a reason along with the people you meet.

Arguably, not much really happened other than the characters traveling to different destinations and conversing. Still, put it on your watch list.