It is always exciting to see the film work of new directors and actors. I don't think enough of us stop to take the time to appreciate the work which goes into these smaller productions to eventually forge the legends we know today such as David Lynch, Tim Burton, or Terry Gilliam.
Baring in mind that is not a AAA Hollywood blockbuster, it perked my interest as film directors like Sharad Patel making names for themselves generally put in extra elbow grease to fill in the gaps with a good writing style, well developed characters, and strategic use of resources.
Fortunately Somebody's Darling is no exception to the rule. It addresses some of the more relatable situations in fraternity culture, yet indirectly so as to build the build upon the story line of the main characters.
The suspenseful writing is well thought out with a methodical approach, but is able to not take itself too seriously (with a few jabs at reference to the film not being more than it is). There is a very fine line between campy, good and crappy in smaller budget films; often too easy to take oneself too seriously and be unintentionally campy as hell, or not seriously enough and confuse the audience as to whether or not they just watched a parody thriller (or both!).
My main quirk with the film was that the pacing did seem to bog down a bit much past the halfway mark, as I felt it was fleshed out enough at that point; it did manage to redeem itself, picking up and progressing the plot and holding my interest throughout the rest. Now as whether you are the type of movie goer who wants to be the first to figure out the plot within the first two lines of the movie, or the viewer who enjoys letting the story unfold, the writing particularly well balanced as it manages to be appealing to both camps.
I could go on that the main antagonist could have been a bit less stiff in his delivery, but on the other hand, I found his somewhat stilted delivery to add to the distant/apathetic/psychopathic role at times.
With a solid plot that is refreshing in respect to the old hat many thrillers/suspense films dawn, an intimate development between the characters and well thought out writing; in addition to making the most of a slim budget; overall, I would give this film a solid recommendation. In fact, I want to give it another go after learning some interesting details about the writing and set details after the first watch (kudos to the attention to detail); but no spoilers here folks.
I hope to see more work of Director Sharad Patel and will definitely keep my eye on him, I'd advise the same to anyone else following new directors who moving up in the scene putting out good content.
