Making The Rules

Making The Rules is a contemporary American drama released in 2014, starring Jaime Pressly, Robin Thicke, and Tygh Runyan. Acclaimed director Jimbo Lee helms the reigns of this introspective film that navigates the themes of love, loss, and rediscovery in the fast-paced modern world.

The film centers around Abby (Jaime Pressly), a successful and talented culinary professional laser-focused on achieving acute precision and creativity in her high-pressure kitchen in Los Angeles, one of the most demanding cities for culinary excellence. Abby's rise to fame in the culinary world extends beyond her remarkable skill in the kitchen. It also lies in her ability to uphold work discipline, her undeniable work ethic, and her strict adherence to traditional culinary practices.

However, Abby's life takes an unexpected turn when she sustains a severe hand injury, forcing her to step away from the sanctuary of her kitchen and face the world outside her culinary haven. The sudden absence of her daily routine leaves Abby tormented and unbridled, compelling her to confront certain unresolved aspects of her life. It spirals her into a whirlpool of emotional, psychological, and existential exploration far beyond the conventional plot of a culinary drama.

Without any spoiler, the unique charm of this film lies in how Abby's professional setback inadvertently sets her on a remarkable journey of self-discovery and personal bondings. Long-held emotions intensify when Abby's estranged husband Matt (Robin Thicke) enters the scene. His presence adds layers of complexity and depth to Abby's journey, enriching the film's narrative with an exploration of marriage, personal growth, and the power dynamics often prevailing in relationships.

Handling the role of Matt, Robin Thicke, famous for his contribution to the music industry, delivers a remarkable performance and showcases his ability within the realm of acting. His portrayal of Matt is both believable and hauntingly real, effectively sparking moments of self-reflection for the audience. Everyday moments between Abby and Matt simmer with lingering silences and forgotten memories, underlined by their complex shared history.

Tygh Runyan, playing the admirably supportive Shaun, becomes a fresh respite for Abby. He aids Abby during this turbulent transitional phase of her life, introducing a new wave of self-discovery and change. The nuanced performances combined with the movie's restrained yet insightful approach make Making The Rules a compelling domestic drama.

The movie, apart from its titular characters, also cleverly employs its setting as a significant character. Los Angeles, with its fast-paced living and high-stakes environment, echoes the characters' internal struggles—providing an immersive backdrop against which the drama unfolds. The environment brings a paradoxical dichotomy between the high-octane professional world and the personal realm, presenting a colorful backdrop for Abby's journey.

Amidst the dialogues and silences, the cinematography in Making The Rules deserves a mention for enhancing visual storytelling. The camera captures the hustle and bustle of the kitchen against the quiet despair of a strained relationship and the seclusion of self-rediscovery. Through the refined aesthetics of the film, the performances, the direction, and the script harmonize to deliver a poignant narrative about human strengths, weaknesses, and relationships.

In summary, Making The Rules is an emotionally intelligent film that does not shy away from delving into the complexity of relationships and personal growth. With stellar performances from Jaime Pressly, Robin Thicke, and Tygh Runyan, it explores the human ability to navigate bereavements, understand the error of past judgements, and muster the courage to embrace change. The film is an insightful watch for anyone interested in exploring a moving narrative entwined around the essence of human life, emotions, dreams, and love.