Retake

Retake is a captivating 2016 drama set in the picturesque landscapes of the American West. It is woven around the lives of two individuals; a middle-aged man and a young male hustler, played by Tuc Watkins and Devon Graye respectively.

Tuc Watkins delivers a spectacular performance as Jonathan, a wealthy business person with a nuanced personality that unveils itself with the progression of the story. Jonathan carries an unmistakable pall of somberness and loneliness which is rooted in a past that hasn't found closure. He finds himself restless and seeking something which props him to embark on a road trip across the American West.

In an aim to relive his past or perhaps rewrite it, he hires a street hustler named Brandon, played by the talented Devon Graye. Brandon is supposed to play the role of his lost love on this trip, which entails him role-playing specific memories and moments that have haunted Jonathan for years. The story relies on the chemistry these two actors build upon, which lends itself to a palpable tension throughout the film.

What starts as a simple impersonation job quickly turns into a complex journey of self-discovery and enlightened understanding for both the characters as they traverse through the beautifully diverse landscapes of America. Watkins and Graye's performances are emotionally enthralling, reflecting the intricacies of their characters and their shared journey.

Watkins plays his character with a remarkable subtlety that reflects deep-set anguish, latent guilt, and a longing for something that he lost. Graye, on the other hand, is equally commendable in his portrayal of a street-smart young man who slowly grows into a character of significance. Devon’s character develops an intriguing empathy towards his employer’s pain, while simultaneously going through a transformative journey of his own.

Directed by Nick Corporon, Retake is a beautifully crafted film that explores some deep existential questions related to the state of human emotions. It delves into the human psyche's struggle with loss, loneliness, love, and the extent to which individuals can go to seek closure or redemption from their haunting past.

The film’s setting is at once timeless and current, the timeless American West landscapes almost becoming a character in the narrative. Derek Phillips adds another layer to the film as Danny, a former lover of Brandon who plays a pivotal, although brief, role in the plot. The cinematography and editing of the movie add a fresh perspective and depth to the narrative that leaves a lasting impression on viewers.

Retake also offers a nuanced insight into gay identity, hinting at the shared experiences of the gay community without resorting to clichés, stereotypes, or mainstream tropes. This lends an air of authenticity to the film, making it appealing and relatable to a broad spectrum of audience.

The plot of the movie unravels with a seamless mix of suspense, raw emotion, and a deep sense of empathy for its characters. The narrative is further enriched with flashbacks, dramatic confrontations, and moments of shared vulnerability and understanding, making the storyline compelling and thought-provoking.

The central theme around which Retake revolves is the persistence of memory and how it shapes our current identity. Through the complex relationship between the characters of Jonathan and Brandon, Retake explores the influence of past experiences and how we often seek closure by going back to confront or recreate certain moments.

Overall, Retake is a deeply moving film that successfully intertwines the powerful performances by Tuc Watkins and Devon Graye with an emotionally charged narrative, manifestations of the rugged American West, insightful exploration of human emotion and the will to overcome past trauma. It invites its audience to reflect on the impact of their memories and experiences, lending a significant emotional depth to the storyline. Retake is a must-watch for cinema lovers looking for a beautifully crafted narrative with powerful performances and a profound exploration of human psychology.