In Reality

In Reality (2018) is a charming and captivating romantic drama that plunges into the depths of unrequited love, self-realization, and the insecurities intricately weaved within the human heart. Stellar performances by Ann Lupo, Miles G. Jackson, and Kimiko Glenn enhance the storytelling mechanics of this independent film, directed and co-written by Ann Lupo herself. This narrative feature embodies a unique mix of quirky humor, raw emotion, and fantasy, guaranteeing an enchanting journey into the realm of love and relationships.

The film centers around Ann - an ambitious and talented production assistant who wears her heart on her sleeve. Enigmatically portrayed by Ann Lupo, she imagines herself in a passionate crossroad of love with her colleague, an enigmatic figure aptly named "John," impressively played by Miles G. Jackson. After sharing a seemingly innocent kiss with John in a parking lot, Ann becomes tormented with unrequited feelings of attraction, therefore setting the stage for a personal journey of self-discovery and exploration that's heartfelt in its sincerity.

Lupo’s character is a lead with extraordinary charm that significantly enhances the film, and her narrative voice-over provides a personal lens for viewers, further deepening our understanding of her feelings. Despite her dreams being filled with grandeur fantasies about John, reality insists on being consistently disappointing. Her struggle is portrayed in a poignant and relatable manner that pulls the audience deep into the crux of the story.

A standout aspect of the film is its unique presentation style. Mixing the elements of a romantic drama with touches of magical realism, In Reality bends traditional film genres and narratives. Through vivid and lively dream sequences, Ann's idealized version of love is contrasts her unfortunate waking existence, adding an extra layer to the storytelling.

Moreover, the film uses dramatic shifts in lighting, flashes of animation, and meta-commentary to create a visually engaging and distinct mood. All these elements together allow In Reality to transcend the conventional boundaries of romantic dramas and create an artistic visual landscape that effectively mirrors Ann's emotional experiences.

Kimiko Glenn, known for her roles in Orange Is the New Black and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, rounds off the cast list as Ann's roommate and confidant, a refreshing yet solid presence who helps anchor the narrative with humorous yet perceptive commentary on romance. She succeeds in being both an observer and an active participant in Ann’s journey of self-discovery, providing a secondary lens through which the movie's themes can be explored.

While In Reality is about navigating the crushing weight of unrequited love, it's also about coming to terms with one's own reality and exploring the intricacies of self-understanding. The film's value lies within its candid portrayal of love, emphasizing that it comes in variant forms and complexities. It boldly suggests that sometimes, our most important relationship is the one we have with ourselves.

The screenplay, penned by Ann Lupo, Esteban Pedraza, and Aaron Pryka, offers snappy dialogue and deft narrative pacing. The subtle satire within the screenplay provides comedic relief and light-hearted moments, strikes a balance with the film's deeper and more complicated themes.

Moreover, In Reality's distinct storytelling and excellent direction elevate it from a traditional romantic drama. Lupo half unflinchingly, half humorously, puts her character's insecurities under the microscope, critically examining her romantic expectations.

In conclusion, In Reality is a compelling exploration of unrequited love, self-love, and acceptance, providing a unique cinematic experience that appeals to a broad audience. It's a rare gem that emphasizes the power of embracing one's imperfections and accepting the harsh truths of love and life.