Jesse Zwick’s directorial debut, About Alex, initially drew comparisons to the iconic 1984 film The Big Chill. While both films feature a group of friends confronting life’s complexities, About Alex carves its own path, offering a raw and poignant exploration of contemporary anxieties and the enduring bonds of friendship. This film isn’t just a rehash; it’s a relevant and resonant story for today’s audience, making it a must-see for those seeking narratives that reflect the current millennial experience.
At its heart, About Alex revolves around seven friends who reunite for a weekend retreat after Alex, one of their own, attempts suicide. This premise, while heavy, is handled with sensitivity and nuance. The film masterfully navigates the delicate terrain of mental health, portraying the varied reactions and coping mechanisms within a friend group facing such a crisis. As the friends take turns supporting Alex, old dynamics resurface, and buried emotions come to light, creating a compelling and emotionally charged narrative.
The strength of About Alex is undeniably its ensemble cast. Featuring a stellar lineup including Aubrey Plaza (Parks and Recreation), Maggie Grace (Taken), Max Minghella (The Social Network), Nate Parker (Arbitrage), Jason Ritter (Freddy vs. Jason), Max Greenfield (New Girl), and Jane Levy (Suburgatory), the film boasts performances that are both authentic and captivating. Each actor embodies their role with conviction, portraying relatable characters grappling with personal struggles and interpersonal relationships.
Particularly noteworthy are Max Greenfield, who continues to be a scene-stealer with his charismatic presence, and Aubrey Plaza, who ventures into new dramatic territory with remarkable success. Plaza’s performance in About Alex showcases her range and depth as an actress, proving her capability beyond comedic roles. The chemistry and interplay among the entire cast are palpable, lending authenticity to the portrayal of long-term friendships.
Jesse Zwick demonstrates considerable promise as both writer and director in About Alex. His assured direction and thoughtful script create an immersive viewing experience. Zwick skillfully uses the setting, both the secluded house and the surrounding natural environment, to enhance the film’s atmosphere and reflect the characters’ internal states. The setting becomes almost another character, contributing to the overall emotional landscape of About Alex.
While About Alex is largely successful, some minor technical aspects prevent it from reaching absolute perfection. The editing choices occasionally disrupt the flow between scenes, a minor drawback in an otherwise polished film. However, considering its independent film status, About Alex stands impressively tall. A slightly more refined final cut would have elevated the film further, but this is a minor critique in the context of its overall achievements.
In conclusion, About Alex is a truly captivating film. It is filled with moments of both laughter and tears, and it elevates the standard for ensemble dramas. This is a thoughtful and engaging piece that will resonate with audiences for years to come. About Alex is not only one of the best ensemble casts seen this year but also a standout offering from the Tribeca Film Festival, making it a highly recommended watch for anyone interested in insightful and well-acted character-driven stories.
