DVD Corner

Before We Go Blu-ray Review

“Before We Go” is not a directorial debut to remember.

Chris Evans (who is probably best known for playing Captain America) steps in front of the camera and behind the camera for his directorial debut “Before We Go.” The film is a simple romantic drama-comedy about a down on his luck trumpet player (Nick) who encounters a woman (Brooke) that is having a bad day. Not only has Brooke’s purse, ID, and money been stolen, but she’s stuck in the city with no way to go. Initially, Nick and Brooke get off on the wrong foot, but they soon bond. Together, the two try to find Brooke’s purse while also devising a way for her to get back home. Through all of this, the two unexpectedly help each other through some life drama and, yes, begin to fall for one another.

Remember how we all fell for Jesse and Celine as they wandered Vienna together in “Before Sunrise”? Well, “Before We Go” wishes audiences felt the same way about the characters in this indie film. Unfortunately, “Before We Go” feels like nothing more than a knock-off of that brilliant Richard Linklater film.

From start to finish, “Before We Go” comes across as a short film that has been unnecessarily stretched to a feature length film. The thin and fluffy script never rings true as a majority of the banter and situations feel forced. There’s nothing natural about the characters or situations here.

Now, that’s not a knock on the two main cast members Chris Evans and Alice Eve who quite literally carry every scene. The two the best they can with their parts and they do have chemistry together. It’s just a shame the characters and story are so dull.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.85:1 1080p. How does it look? The bland visual style and the handheld camera work doesn’t even look in good in hi-def.

Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? In a word, flat.

Extras include a Radius trailer and a brief conversation with Chris Evans who talks about directing and trumpet playing.

October 29, 2015 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Before We Go Blu-ray Review, Chris Evans