Good After Bad

Good After Bad, a 2017 drama directed by Anne-Marie Hess, explores the complexities of human nature, human relationships, and the pursuit of happiness. The film stars Maddie Hasson, Billy Burke, and Dabier. The engaging script, splendid performances, and dynamic storytelling method offer the viewer a truly meaningful cinematic experience.

At the heart of the story is the young, impressionable Shelly (Maddie Hasson), who grapples with the uncertainties and trials of being a high school girl. Shelly spends her days navigating the stressful demands of school, dealing with a tumultuous home life, and yearning for a sense of stability. Her life takes an unforeseen turn when she crosses paths with Wes (Billy Burke), a wealthy, emotionally complex man who struggles with his past and his present.

Billy Burke's performance as Wes is nothing short of captivating. He authentically embodies the layered and intricate character, radiating a mixture of tough exterior and vulnerability. Wes, often misunderstood due to his wealth, is a man in search of meaning and connection, who becomes intrigued and touched by the genuineness and resilience of Shelly. As Shelly and Wes's lives intertwine unexpectedly, it becomes evident that their similarities run deep, and that both of them are seeking something more than what they currently possess.

Maddie Hasson's portrayal of Shelly is both magnetic and moving. Shelly, a school girl trapped in an unstable home environment and craving a semblance of normalcy, is a character whom many young girls can identify with. Hasson brilliantly displays Shelly's struggle to keep her spirits high, despite the chaos surrounding her. She captures the complex nature of adolescence, embodying the essence of a young woman poised on the brink of self-discovery.

Adding to the mix of this character-driven story is Dabier, who plays Mickey, a friend of Shelly’s and a powerful supporting character in the narrative. His role peppers the storyline with nuances of friendship, loyalty, and resilience, further enriching the plot.

Good After Bad is a tale about finding the silver lining among life's darkest clouds. It reflects the truth that extraordinary and unexpected bonds can form in the unlikeliest of places, and that everyone is fighting a battle, whether visible or not. The movie does an excellent job of painting a picture of distinctly different lives that are propelled towards each other by the force of necessity and the desire for change.

Contrasting the whimsical world of youth with the polished exterior of high society, the movie captures the essence of these two contrasting lives—with all their trials, tribulations, and triumphs—and intertwines them, leading to a profoundly transformative journey for both Shelly and Wes.

Director Anne-Marie Hess does a stellar job of creating an immersive narrative—using the tools of visually stunning cinematography, personal close-ups, and composed scenes to tell this human story. The movie via its narrative explores themes of loneliness, the search for happiness, personal struggle, and the unlikely friendships that develop from shared experiences.

The sound design and music score of the movie further emphasize and complement the movie's thematic content while adding another layer of narrative depth. Engaging, emotional, and softly orchestrated scores accompany scenes of dramatic beauty and personal revelation, helping to drive home the movie's core messages.

Good After Bad not only offers an exploration of the multidimensional human spirit but also subtly points out the universal need for understanding and companionship that transcends societal norms and economic boundaries. It's a portrayal of resilience amid adversity, of hope in times of crisis, and most importantly, of the power of unexpected friendships and their ability to heal.

To summarize, Good After Bad is a thought-provoking, emotionally captivating film that takes the audience on a journey through life's corners—uncovering everything from pain and longing to hope and healing. This film, layered with remarkable performances and engaging storytelling, is a must-watch for lovers of drama, emotional depth, and uniquely human stories.