Warning – This review contains spoilers
Outside In is a slow-paced drama based on an ex-con, Chris adjusting to life out of prison and coming to terms with his relationship with his former high-school teacher, Carol.
Jay Duplass and Edie Falco’s performances are stellar. There is a pivotal moment near the end where Carol tells him she doesn’t want a simple life and his heart just breaks into a hundred pieces.
The other highlight of the movie was seeing an amazing art installation in an abandoned house by the daughter, Hildy.
The film is slow-paced and lacks some oomph.
Chris tries to adapt to the new technologies and seeing old school friends move on with their lives while he was in jail.
The inevitable bedroom scene is awkward. The confrontation scene with the husband the next morning could have been an entertaining fight or sling match but was also uncomfortable to watch.
I would have liked to have heard more about why Chris went to jail and what Carol did to get him out early.
At the heart of this film is two people trying to make the best of their life’s situation and their future. Outside In had potential but left me disappointed.
Outside In is showing as part of the American Essentials Film Festival with its Australian Premiere.
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