Jessica Jessica

Jessica Jessica is a 2017 Canadian short film directed by Jasper Savage and produced by Marc Swenker. This Canadian indie gem is an authentic, relatable and up close and personal look at two best friends in their 30s, the two Jessicas. Starring Jefferson Brown, Jessica Greco, Greg Calderone, and Jessica Hinkson, the film is a relationship comedy about women who are no longer in their 20s but not quite in their 40s and find themselves stuck in a transitional phase in their lives. Both are named Jessica, but they're entirely different people who deal with their problems in very different ways.

One of the Jessicas, portrayed by Jessica Greco, seems to be desperately seeking a permanent relationship after a painful breakup, while other Jessica, portrayed by Jessica Hinkson, experiences issues with commitment and perfectly embodies the free spirit stuck in the endless cycle of casual relationships. They are friends, confidants, advisors, and critics to each other, offering a safe space to vent their frustrations and worries.

Jefferson Brown, who plays Jeremy, intersects their lives in a way that is both entertaining and meaningful. Brown's ability to depict a character caught between two enduring and effervescent Jessicas is accomplished with finesse and flair. Greg Calderone masterfully plays Jessica Greco's ex who still has a noticeable effect on her emotional state, which adds an extra layer to the story.

Set mostly in the vivid, bustling, urbane landscape of Toronto, Jessica Jessica captures the unique vibe that the city exudes. It's a celebration of femininity, friendship, and the heartache of modern dating life. The camerawork is creative and dynamic. The crew has succeeded in reflecting the emotional landscapes onto the physical scenery, which demonstrates Toronto's beautiful parks, streetscapes, and nightlife in ways that beautifully mirror the characters' emotional trajectory.

What stands out most in Jessica Jessica is the honest portrayals of the characters and their relationships with each other. The writers, Jessica Hinkson and Jessica Greco (who also star in the film), represent modern women's anxieties about romance, sex, and age in an authentic and humane way that resonates universally. Emotions, dialogue, and actions aren't glamourized or over-dramatized. Instead, the film uses its short duration to peel back the layers of these characters, exposing their fears and desires.

Moreover, the film excels in its blended tonality, seamlessly weaving the tragic with the comic. Even though it is a comedy at its core, Jessica Jessica doesn't shy away from heavier themes that might be faced by individuals in this age and time. The film touches on the complexities of the dating scene in the digital age, commitment fears, the societal pressures imposed on women, and the prospect of aging, all with an underpinning of humor and vivacity.

Jessica Jessica is remarkable for its restraint, ensuring that the dramatic moments arrive naturally and are rooted in realism. Add to that the fact that the two female leads are also the authors of the script, which gives the narrative a unique authenticity and genuine understanding of female friendship only those who have lived it could provide.

The soundtrack of the film deserves a mention for enhancing the cinematic experience and playing a significant role in setting a distinct mood for the film. The music accurately reflects the characters' state of mind, making the audience genuinely connected to their emotions.

In summary, Jessica Jessica is a refreshing account of modern love and friendship. With spirited performances, a genuine script, and authentic presentation of its characters and their struggles, the film manages to balance the hilarity and the poignancy of contemporary life. As a result, it's a compelling portrayal of two friends grappling with the uncertainties of life, love, and aging, while staying true to their essence. With a mix of humor and heart, Jessica Jessica is sure to tug at your heartstrings and evoke both empathetic tears and hearty laughter.