If Not Now, When?

If Not Now, When? is an emotionally stirring drama released in 2019 that showcases the transformative power of friendship in life’s most challenging moments. Leading actresses Joelle Ashley, Tamara Bass, and Shamicka Benn contribute heart-rending performances, illuminating the highs and lows of the shared female experience.

The film follows the intertwining storylines of four lifelong friends – Patrice (Ashley), Deidre (Bass), and Suzanne and Tyra (both played by Benn) – who are confronted with trials and tribulations that test their bond and shared history. The narrative extends over two decades, delving deep into the lives of the four friends, each with her own struggles and triumphs.

Joelle Ashley, who plays Patrice, is a steadfast and loyal friend, and the moral compass of the group, anchoring the narrative when circumstances spin out of control. Her character's narrative introduces elements of duty, sacrifice, and the complexities of married life.

Tamara Bass is Deidre, a successful lawyer whose life appears perfect on the surface, but is fraught with hidden fractures. Extended screen-time spent on Deidre's perfectly curated life reveals its flawed underbelly, making a strong statement about societal pressures on women, projecting perfection, and the toll it exacts.

Shamicka Benn portrays not one, but two impactful characters – Suzanne and Tyra. Suzanne, a devoted single mother, juggles between her demanding job and the responsibilities of motherhood. On the other hand, Tyra, a nurse, has her life derailed due to an escalating drug addiction. Benn steps into both roles seamlessly, switching between the two characters and presenting viewers with a vivid display of her acting prowess.

The film isn’t afraid to explore weighty themes such as addiction, infidelity, and single motherhood. While these issues can some times feel slightly overwhelming, they also give a sense of authenticity to the narrative. Director Tamara Bass utilises her skills behind the camera as well as she does in front of it, building a world that feels very real and lived in.

Throughout their ordeal, the friends come together regularly to share their experiences, their trials and triumphs, their secrets, and their dreams. These meetings, some planned and others serendipitous, give viewers a comforting sense of camaraderie, as though they too are a part of this close-knit group. It’s through these moments of shared laughter and shared tears that the audience can resonate with and root for the characters, even in their lowest moments.

Beyond its exploration of friendship, If Not Now, When? does an exceptional job of examining the pressures of womanhood in the 21st Century. Each main character has to confront the expectations placed upon her – as a wife, as a mother, as a successful career woman, and as a friend.

The film benefits from a remarkable ensemble cast, each actress bringing depth and dimension to her character. The performances are brimming with authenticity, making it easy for viewers to connect and empathize with the characters on-screen. The script is also skillfully written, offering stellar dialogues that capture the essence of womanhood and friendship impeccably.

The cinematography is deftly done, evoking the right mood and emotions for each sequence. Whether it’s a scene of heartbreak or joyous celebration, the film manages to pull the audience into the heart of the moment, offering a cinematic experience that’s both engaging and captivating.

In conclusion, If Not Now, When? is a heartfelt tale of friendship, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit. The film’s ability to capture the essence of female camaraderie, coupled with outstanding performances from its lead actresses, makes it an unforgettable cinematic journey.