Step Back, Doors Closing Review: A Heartfelt Gem!

December 11, 2024 Surya Komal 0 Comments Carmen Berkeley, Carter Ward, English Movies, Hollywood, Hollywood Movie Reviews, Hollywood Movies, Reilly Walters, Step Back Doors Closing

A chance encounter on the DC metro brings together Ryan, a newly single 24-year-old, and Julisa, a grad student at a crossroads. As the two navigate a night filled with unexpected twists, they bond over their hopes, dreams, and vulnerabilities. Set in Washington, DC, “Step Back, Doors Closing,” written and directed by Carter Ward, offers a refreshing take on love and self-discovery, capturing the universal journey of opening up to new possibilities and the emotional intelligence that comes with learning to connect authentically.

Starting with the positives, I really enjoyed this movie, particularly the two lead characters, Ryan and Julisa, both in their early 20s and navigating the challenges of life. Ryan is coming out of a four-year relationship, uncertain about what comes next, while Julisa is feeling stuck in grad school, torn between dropping out and not wanting to set a bad example for her sisters. What I especially appreciated was how Carter Ward, the writer-director, brings these two distinct characters together in a way that feels both authentic and relatable. They meet by chance, with no intention of liking each other, but through a series of conversations over the next 24 hours, their lives and perspectives shift in ways they never expected.

Speaking of conversations, for a movie that focuses on just two characters walking around DC and talking, the dialogue in “Step Back, Doors Closing” is absolutely top-notch. It’s personal, philosophical, and often funny. I especially loved Julisa’s line about how the intimate moment they share will live on forever in the fabric of space and time. Their exchanges start off casual, as you’d expect when two strangers meet, but as the hours pass, the conversation deepens. They open up about their likes, dislikes, and vulnerable thoughts, and it’s in these moments that they truly connect.

What really stood out to me was how the dialogue naturally leads them from surface-level small talk to something more intimate and profound. It’s clear that Julisa, in particular, has never experienced anything this meaningful before, and I loved how Ward subtly shows her growing feelings. A perfect example is the way Julisa gets jealous at one point—just a small, quiet gesture that speaks volumes about how deeply she’s starting to care for Ryan. The pacing of the film really works here; it escalates at just the right moments and reaches a satisfying, heartfelt conclusion.

Another standout feature is how Washington, DC, feels like a character in its own right. The city is so beautifully woven into the narrative, adding its own charm to the story. From iconic landmarks like a rare view of the White House to the intimate spot in a restaurant where JFK proposed to Jackie, DC’s presence is felt in every scene. I love when filmmakers use the city as an integral part of the story, and Carter Ward does this masterfully. The city becomes more than just a backdrop—it becomes a part of the emotional journey, making you fall in love with both DC and the two leads. Whether it’s the lively streets or quiet corners, the setting complements the growing connection, adding layers and making their story even more captivating.

Coming to the performances, I absolutely loved Carmen Berkeley as Julisa. This is my first time seeing her in a film, and she truly captivated me. She’s radiant, full of charm, and nails the raw emotions of a woman stepping into adulthood with innocence, fear, and uncertainty. Reilly Walters as Ryan is equally impressive. He perfectly portrays a man who’s matured through a long relationship, knowing how to behave and charm, yet still navigating the complexities of moving forward. Both actors bring depth to their roles, making their chemistry even more believable.

Overall, “Step Back, Doors Closing” is one of the sweetest films I’ve watched this year. Led by two endearing characters, the film’s dialogue, the charming backdrop of DC, and the top-notch performances really make it shine. The production design and music also add layers to the film, lighting it up both inside and out. I’m excited to see more from Carter Ward—this is his debut feature, and I’m blown away by the depth in his writing. Simple, delightful, engaging, and beautiful, this movie truly stands out as a heartfelt gem.