Me and Will

Me and Will is an evocative drama film released in 1999 that offers a look into the complex lives of two women united by their mutual admiration for the iconic movie Easy Rider. The film incorporated the elements of drama, road trip, and self-discovery deftly, making it a movie that touched the audience on a personal level.

The story starts in Los Angeles with the introduction of its frequently troubled main characters. Jane (played by Sherrie Rose), is an ambitious actress with an inclination towards the rebellious side, frequently finding herself in conflict with the law. Her cynical outlook on life and the industry she aims to excel in casts a dramatic shadow on her character. On the other hand, Will (portrayed by Melissa Behr), is a gifted artist, who leads a hard life, struggling with the aftermath of a distressing past. Her character is deeply complex, dealing with substance abuse and emotional instability.

Their paths cross at a drug rehabilitation center, where they discover a shared love for the movie Easy Rider. This common ground becomes the catalyst for their significant friendship, fueled by a quest to find the motorcycle used in the film - a symbol of freedom and liberation for them. Soon enough, they embark on a cross-country journey brimming with rebellion and self-discovery.

The film presents a stark comparison between the glamorous Hollywood life and the not-so-glamorous reality of the main characters. As the story unfolds, the audience gets a glimpse of their personal lives, past struggles, and their fight against the societal norms that dictate a conventional life. This compelling journey serves as a medium of exploration, not only for the characters but also for the audience, who get drawn in by the raw and honest depiction of life's hardest challenges.

Breathing life into these complicated characters are the brilliant performances of Sherrie Rose and Melissa Behr. Rose brings forth the gritty, blunt persona of Jane, while not shying away from showcasing her vulnerable side - a performance that reveals the many layers of her character. Conversely, Behr presents a deeply moving portrayal of Will, reflecting her past trauma and pain through her emotions, expressions, and hard exterior.

Adding to the movie's charm are Jason Hall and Bret Domrose who play supporting roles. They enhance the narrative with their character portrayal, maintaining the complexity of the storyline. Their characters add depth to the plot, influencing the protagonists' journey either by being a part of it or by provoking swift changes in their lives.

Directors Melissa Behr and Sherrie Rose do an exceptional job in unfolding a story that is not only compelling but also relatable. Their storytelling prowess is evident as they beautifully capture the emotional depth, the struggles, and the prevailing desire to break free. They successfully manage to steer the storyline away from cliches typically associated with road trip movies, giving the audience a film that is uniquely profound and thought-provoking.

The aesthetic cinematography paints an intimate picture of the characters' surroundings, reflecting their emotional state and highlighting their journey's remarkable moments. The alternating urban and rural setting serves to emphasize the drastic changes that the characters face in their lives. Simultaneously, the remarkable score enhances the overall mood, solidifying the emotional punch the movie delivers.

In essence, Me and Will is more than a mere road trip movie. It's a poignant tale of companionship and personal growth through hardship. This doesn't shy away from taking a deep dive into the lives of its strong female leads and their quest for liberation. With an intricate storyline, effective performances, and a captivating narrative, it is a film that inspires reflection and offers a sense of solidarity with its audience. Through their chaos and search for freedom, Jane and Will paint a hauntingly beautiful image that challenges and resonates with you long after the movie has ended.