Good Side of Bad Review: Poignant and Heartfelt!

December 21, 2024December 21, 2024 Surya Komal 0 Comments

Based on Beverly Olevin’s bestselling book, Good Side of Bad is a poignant family drama exploring the impact of mental illness on relationships. Directed by Alethea Root, the film follows three siblings—Sara, Florence, and Peter—as they reunite to support Florence after her schizophrenia diagnosis. With a screenplay co-written by Root, Ciera Danielle, Jules Bruff, and Bill Narducci, the film delves into themes of love, resilience, and the struggles of caregiving, offering a raw portrayal of familial bonds tested by adversity.

One of the standout aspects of Good Side of Bad is its unflinching exploration of the complexities of mental health, shedding light on the profound challenges faced by individuals battling mental illness and their caregivers. The film delves into Florence’s struggle with schizophrenia, illustrating its impact on her relationships, peace, and well-being—particularly with her siblings, Sara and Peter. By highlighting the strain of caregiving and the sacrifices it entails, the narrative examines themes of resilience, familial responsibility, and the often-overlooked emotional toll on loved ones.

Speaking of the familial bond, the three primary characters in the film are deeply nuanced, each adding layers to the film’s emotional resonance. Florence, the lead, is a fascinatingly complex character, portrayed with authenticity as she shifts from moments of clarity to the overwhelming lows of her mental illness. The director captures these transitions with sensitivity, offering a raw and honest portrayal.

Sara, the resilient elder sister, serves as the family’s optimistic anchor, consistently supporting Florence until a breaking point that feels slightly out of character. Peter, the elder brother, shares Sara’s sense of familial responsibility but maintains a steadier, more consistent presence, providing balance to the strained family dynamic. Together, their bond underscores the story’s heart.

The performances were also a highlight, with all three leads delivering strong portrayals of their characters. Lexi Simonsen stands out as Florence, capturing the vulnerability and unpredictability of someone battling schizophrenia with a performance that is both heartbreaking and authentic. Jules Bruff brings depth to Sara, embodying her resilience and emotional struggles as the family’s anchor. Alex Quijano as Peter is steady and understated, effectively conveying the quiet strength of a brother reconnecting with his family.

Alethea Root’s direction in Good Side of Bad brings an intimate and sensitive touch to the film, emphasizing the raw emotional depth of the story. Paired with Mark David’s cinematography, the film adopts a voyeuristic style, drawing viewers into the private struggles of the family. The subtle shifts in visual tone, particularly during Florence’s episodes, effectively reflect her mental state without overindulgence, enhancing the authenticity of the storytelling.

While the movie excels in its emotional depth, it isn’t without flaws. The pacing feels sluggish at times, with certain scenes dragging and becoming repetitive when the narrative should progress toward the climax. This lack of momentum occasionally detracts from the overall impact. Additionally, the background score is disappointingly bland and repetitive, often feeling out of place and failing to enhance key moments.

Overall, Good Side of Bad offers a poignant and heartfelt exploration of mental health and its profound impact on individuals and their families. The film effectively portrays the emotional toll of living with and supporting someone through mental illness, resonating deeply on a personal level. With strong performances, especially from Lexi Simonsen, it captures the highs and lows with authenticity. While there are flaws, the movie’s emotional depth and raw storytelling make it a compelling watch.