Nothing Good Ever Happens

Nothing Good Ever Happens is an American indie film by writer and director, Henrique Couto, released in 2016. It is an engrossing and heartbreaking comedy-drama featuring a remarkable cast, including Erin R. Ryan, Al Snow, and Iabou Windimere. The movie provides a raw and realistic exploration of human emotions, relationships, and the notion of self-acceptance. It serves as a platform for the cast to deliver emotive and powerful performances, which have been highly praised by critics and audiences alike.

The narrative of Nothing Good Ever Happens primarily revolves around the complex life of our main protagonist, Neil (played by Josh Miller). Miller gives a moving performance as a down-to-earth guy struggling with his personal and professional life, dealing with an array of adversities and crises that life sometimes hurls at us all at once.

Neil's distinctively dramatic story unfolds after he ends up in the hospital due to an oversight that results in the unfortunate loss of his job, his house, and the unravelling of everything he once held dear. This starting point of the movie sets a sombre tone that transfigures into a profound observation of Neil's life thrown into stark meltdown and his journey of piecing his life back together.

Erin R. Ryan plays the role of Alyssa, a close childhood friend of Neil's, who stepped back into his life after many years. She offers an oasis of calm and empathy in the eye of Neil's storm, and their riveting on-screen chemistry adds charm and life to the movie. Ryan's performance as Alyssa is remarkable, perfectly supplementing the film's narrative and its emotional steepness.

The character of Jake, interpreted by the former professional wrestler-turned-actor, Al Snow, is another key character in this drama. Snow delivers a compelling acting performance as Jake, an intrusively harsh yet well-meaning friend trying to guide Neil out of his trance of despair. Jake's robust personality and Al Snow's sturdy performance breathe strength and humor into the narrative, offering a well-needed comic relief.

Iabou Windimere's performance as Sarah, another friend from Neil's past, brings an additional layer of complexity to the narrative. Her return into his life brings along unresolved feelings and challenges, adding another angle to Neil's already complicated situation.

The film skillfully weaves a tale of everyday struggles, human relationships, past ghosts, and the necessary imperative of moving forward. It's about acceptance, love, and the harsh realities of life that we all must face, ultimately revealing that even in the direst situations, life can still surprise us with possibilities and hope.

Through his direction, Couto makes profound use of the film's settings and shots, bringing out the deeply human aspect of the narrative. The simplicity of cinematography contrasts, but effectively compliments, the plot's complexity and overall emotional charging. From empathetic close-ups to revealing long shots, the camera work contributes significantly to amplifying the emotional resonance of the narrative.

The soundtrack of the film plays a subtle yet significant part in setting the emotional tone and rhythm of the narrative. It beautifully complements and reflects the undulating emotions and moods experienced by the characters throughout the movie.

In the end, Nothing Good Ever Happens is a film that speaks volumes about the human spirit's resilience, the acceptance of situations beyond control, and the power of never losing hope. It offers a stark yet emotionally rich examination of moving through life's trials and tribulations, as well as the characters' personal development and transformation.

All in all, Nothing Good Ever Happens stands as a profound study of life, misfortunes, love, and resilience. It effectively utilises comedy and drama, strong performances, and an engrossing narrative, leaving a lasting impact on its audience. As a film, it does not promise a fairy tale ending. Instead, it reflects on the true essence of life - chaotic, unpredictable, yet promising the prospect of hope and renewal.