Cover Versions

Cover Versions 2018, directed by Todd Berger, is a rock 'n' roll whodunnit, powered by a young, energetic cast headlined by Katie Cassidy, Drake Bell, and Jerry Trainor. This intricately planned, clever mystery thriller puts a fresh and dynamic spin on the murder mystery genre, while keeping pace with the witty, rhythmically harmonic beats of its rock band setting.

The movie focuses on the band 'Starfoxy', a foursom group traveling to the biggest festival of their lives, looking for their big breakout moment. The band members include Jackie (Katie Cassidy), Kirk (Jerry Trainor), Travis (Austin Swift), and Byron (Drake Bell). Each member has unique characteristics and idiosyncrasies that shape the dynamic of the band and drive the plot.

But instead of a typical musical movie set-up, Cover Versions spirals into a tale of murder and deception right from the start. On the eve of their biggest gig yet, celebrations take a deadly turn when one band member ends up dead, and the rest are left to unravel the mystery of who is responsible. The plot structure plays out sort of like ‘Rashomon’, Four of the band members give different versions of the night’s events, each implicating someone else. Main suspects include the members themselves, superfans, and industry insiders, and it’s up to the audience to decipher the truth from these conflicting accounts.

Katie Cassidy, known for her work in television series 'Arrow' delivers an equally captivating performance, playing the forceful, ambitious lead singer, Jackie. She deftly captures the stage presence and power of a rock star while also handling the intricacies of the murder mystery plot. On the other hand, Drake Bell, of 'Drake and Josh' fame, plays Byron, the band's drummer, and claims that his version of events is the real one. His dynamic performance gives depth and complexity to his character. And then there's Jerry Trainor, a Nickelodeon mainstay who proves he's more than just a comedic actor, as Kirk, with a surprisingly significant role in the movie's overall plot.

Another exciting element is the music, which creates a rhythmic backdrop throughout the movie. Instead of random insertions, songs in Cover Versions serve as narrative bookmarkers, and mark important transitions in the storyline.

Cover Versions also includes a real sense of millennial culture, encompassing the rock band lifestyle while also exploring contemporary themes of fame, social media and the resulting narcissism. It's a film that is at once critical and understanding of this generation yet never shying away from a whimsical humour.

A strong supporting performance is given by Debby Ryan as a ultra-fan who is entwined in the rock-star lifestyle and intrigue. And then there are the cameos from Shawn "Clown" Crahan of Slipknot, Austin Swift (yes, Taylor's brother), and John Gries (Napoleon Dynamite), helping blend authenticity with the allure of rock celebrity.

Stylistically, the film is drenched in a vibrant, electric aesthetic that complements the rock 'n' roll theme. There's an energy that pulses through each scene, whether it be an argument between the band members or a vividly lit concert sequence. Berger’s direction creates a balance perfectly between hypnotic party scenes and serious whodunit moments, constantly riding a wave of unpredictability.

Overall, Cover Versions offers viewers a thrilling ride that combines music, mystery, and murder in a creatively original way. It’s a movie that thrives on its playful perspective of conflicting truths, and it keeps you guessing right until the end, which is perhaps the most priceless part about it. While on one hand, it's about a rock band's struggle for fame, success, and survival, on the flip side, it turns into a murder mystery, full of twists and turns, and dark humor. Despite the heavy elements, the tone remains stylishly entertaining and engaging throughout.

With a rock-solid cast, intriguing plot, tantalising mystery, and stirring music, Cover Versions is a thoroughly enjoyable watch that rolls to the beat of its own drum.