Columbus - A Movie Review

Friends make a difference in our lives. Never take friendship for granted.

Columbus was released to the Sundance Film Festival in 2017. Two people who are going through similar issues become friends. Both are stuck in Columbus, Indiana. For different reasons. In a short time, Jin and Casey form a friendship analyzing their paths in life.

Having the opportunity to watch films, whether physically or virtually at the Sundance Film Festival is an incredible experience. Columbus is a visceral film. It says so much in its subtle nature. To live we have to be confident in ourselves to strive and achieve.

The first time I saw Haley Lu Richardson in a film was in Split. Richardson’s emotive countenance was a highlight. Casey has a lot to deal with. The relationship that she has with her mother is an important feature. She doesn’t always let people in, forcing herself into a silent chamber.

Arriving into her life at the right time, the friendship between Jin and Casey is significant. John Cho was terrific in his role. The conversations they have are thought-provoking. During their short time together they help mend one another’s issues. Most importantly, they each provide an outlet to share information they hold back.

Other credits to include are Parker Posey, Michelle Forbes, Rory Culkin, Erin Allegretti, and Shani Salyers Stiles. The ensemble has a significant motivation. Whether they are a figure in Jin or Casey’s life, we see what effect they have on them. I enjoyed Culkin’s performance whenever he shared scenes with Richardson.

Dialogue is one of the most important aspects of Columbus. It feels like an actual conversation. The film explores the world of conversations. That’s what held my interest. I looked forward to each time Jin and Casey met up. A conversation can be about anything.

Columbus achieved subtly and imagery. Many may not like the film for its slow pacing. I did not notice this detail until reading a review because I was invested in the film. You have to read between the lines.

Columbus is an emotive film that perceives what emotions we decide to hide from society. Sometimes it’s hard to show emotions. It teaches us how to talk about issues.

Kogonda did a great job with the story. He gave the film substance. The detail is innovative. It reinforces a deep message about friendship. The film is also a great example of how to write dialogue. He draws from reality.

The cinematography is a character of its own. Camera angles embody bold location shots that hold deep metaphorical symbolism. The camera enveloped scenes. Viewers become spectators. Filmmakers did an incredible job setting up scenes that took place in Casey’s house. We get a sense of how alone and lost Casey is in this distant atmosphere.

Taking place in Columbus, Indiana, audiences are treated to an assortment of locations. Now I would like to take a trip to this location because of its architecture. While this looks like a nice town to be in, perspective angles make you feel the trapped atmosphere like the characters.

As described by Kogonda, in Casey’s eyes architecture reflects ‘an entrance to a way of seeing.’ For anyone who is feeling lost, Columbus helps people relocate their direction. Focusing on reality, we cannot forget to think about ourselves and our needs. I like how the film administered how addiction affects everyone in a family and not just one person.

Columbus is a powerful film. I recommend that you find Columbus and watch it. For a film this is so minimal, it says a lot in profound detail.