Angel of Anywhere

Angel of Anywhere captivates audiences with its storyline revolving around the world's oldest trade: providing companionship and comfort to those in need. Released in 2018, Angel of Anywhere directed by James Kicklighter spins an emotive narrative on an unconventional angel whose world is a strip club. The movie stars Briana Evigan, renowned for her roles in Step Up 2: The Streets and Sorority Row, Ser'Darius Blain who has starred in remarkable films such as Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle and Axel Roldos.

The film invites viewers into the fluorescent-lit, pulsating world of the Anywhere Bar - a place that houses not just dance acts, but also individuals with distinctive stories to narrate interconnected through their emotions, longings, and regrets. At the heart of this tale is the character played by Axel Roldos, best known as the angel of Anywhere. His character doesn't bear the traditional angelic insignia of wings or halo. Rather, he is an empathetic, sensitive bartender who listens, understands, and imparts advice to the club's array of clientele.

Briana Evigan plays Michelle, a dancer battling her own demons while trying to find acceptance and love in the world around her. Evigan's portrayal of Michelle is profound, bringing out the vulnerabilities of her character. She encapsulates the strength of a woman fighting her internal struggles while maintaining a bold exterior. Her narrative intertwines with that of the Angel, opening up a panorama of emotions and conflicts that serves as a crucially poignant aspect of the movie.

Ser'Darius Blain is Brian, who forms another section of this movie's multi-faceted individuality spectrum. He walks into the club hiding his loneliness and seeking an oasis of comfort. His complex character is brought to life by Blain with sincerity that resonates with the audience.

Angel of Anywhere rests on the premise that even places considered seedier parts of society can harbor profound connections and quiet moments of wisdom. It delves deep into the human experience, gently peeling back layers of surface-level interactions to reveal raw, unadulterated human emotion. The film showcases the essence of stripped-down human connections and effectively engages in dialogue about understanding people beyond their profession, beyond the roles they inhabit in the dark corners of society.

Director James Kicklighter masterfully breaks down societal stereotypes attached to the disparaged world of strip clubs and provides viewers with a refreshing perspective that glamorizes empathy rather than desire. The film's cinematography captures not only the physical routine but also the underbelly where emotions reside - sometimes hidden, sometimes evident.

Through the residential Angel, the film explores how moments of solace and connection can be found in the most improbable circumstances. The Angel's gift lies in his ability to connect deeply, validating both his and the patrons' emotions, serving as a catalyst for change, introspection, and, occasionally, redemption. He is the one who listens to the patrons’ stories, their fears, their dreams, and offers companionship and, in some instances, a shift of perspective. The ambiguity of the Angel's character - real or metaphysical, makes him even more intriguing adding an extra beneath-the-surface layer to the film.

The film’s score is remarkable as it captures the film's nuance and emotionally charges the storyline, lingering behind even after the final scene has played out. The Anywhere bar, with its neon lights playing against the dark background, sets the stage for the storyline to unfold.

Angel of Anywhere is an emotive journey that gradually immerses the audience into the lives of its characters, painting a vivid picture of their pains, struggles, and hopes through the empathetic understanding of a bartender. From the performances of the leading actors, the anticipation-filled storyline, the sting of unexpressed emotion, and the director's ability to maintain engagement and empathy, it's a unique exploration of the human condition. It might just leave you questioning your sterotypes and understanding of companionship, love, and empathy. By the end of Angel of Anywhere, you may no longer see the world in black and white, but rather, in shades of neon.