Hi-Lo Joe

Hi-Lo Joe is an intense yet intimate indie British drama released in 2017, directed by James Kermack. Acclaimed actors Gethin Anthony (known for his role as Renly Baratheon in Game of Thrones), Jannik Archer, and Tom Bateman (starred in TV's Vanity Fair) take up pivotal roles, adding credibility and charm to the movie.

The film primarily revolves around the character of Joe Ridley (played by Matthew Stathers), a charismatic and energetic young man who is both charming and able to captivate those around him with his infectious enthusiasm. Life seems to be going well for Joe; he's living in his own world, surrounded by jovial friends and deeply in love with his girlfriend Alice (Lizzie Philips). Joe's life seems to be nothing short of a dream - he's the man people adore, and women yearn to be with.

However, underneath his carefree persona, Joe struggles with a turbulent inner world. Even as life appears bright and sunny on the outside, there is a storm brewing on his inside. What begins as a fun-filled drama with light-hearted moments and witty humor gradually unveils a profound narrative about mental health and emotional struggle.

Gethin Anthony plays Charlie, one of Joe's closest and oldest friends. Their camaraderie and shared history are palpable and heart-warming. Yet, Charlie is unaware of the emotional turmoil that Joe battles every day. Bateman's role as another of Joe's close friends also adds another dimension to the ensemble. The personal dynamics and chemistry between the characters fuel the narrative, adding to the depth of the story.

Jannik Archer infuses an authentic vibrancy to the atmosphere, portraying a friend from the gang. As the plot progresses, the movie questions the superficiality of seemingly perfect life, exploring the complexity of internal battles juxtaposed to external appearances.

A significant portion of the film is dedicated to exploring the increasingly strained relationship between Joe and Alice. Joe's inability to openly discuss his feelings and his ongoing breakdown begins to create a visible rift in their relationship. Their love story set in the picturesque town of Reading in England adds a romantic element that is beautifully captured through impressive cinematography.

The director, James Kermack, subtly brings out depression's disconcerting reality in the midst of common banter, boisterous friendships, and passionate love. He uses Joe's character to portray that silent suffering is an actuality, and even the most cheerful people could be grappling with inner demons. The narrative is given a touch of stark realism that is rarely seen in movies tackling depression and mental health.

The film's title "Hi-Lo Joe" metaphorically summarises its central theme - the high and low phases of Joe's life, or in broad terms, the life of anyone battling mental health issues. The movie tackles depression honestly and upfront, presenting an unfiltered view of the toll it takes on relationships and personal wellbeing. While it is raw and intense, it's also relatable to anyone who's been through similar struggles or knows someone who has.

Hi-Lo Joe stands apart due to its rawness, balanced by the charm of its characters and the genuineness in dealing with a topic as sensitive as depression. The vibrant settings and relatable characters juxtapose the heavy undertone, creating a cinematic balance that keeps the audience hooked. As the narrative progress, audiences will find themselves developing deep affection for these characters, making their journey all the more touching, real, and poignant.

The performances by the lead actors are exceptional. Stathers, Anthony, and Philips have managed to capture the true essence of their characters, traversing the ups and downs of their emotional journey with authenticity. Bateman and Archer's performances enable the ensemble cast to shine, making Hi-Lo Joe a compelling watch. The film's emotive soundtrack complements the narrative style, enhancing its emotional depth.

In conclusion, Hi-Lo Joe is a film that talks about mental health issues without any filter. It is a well-crafted movie that beautifully encapsulates the various spectrums of human emotions, with exceptional performances that leave a lasting impact. The film skillfully highlights the much-needed conversation surrounding mental health, making it an essential watch for those who love meaningful cinema or yearn for a deep and thoughtful narrative.