Small Engine Repair

Small Engine Repair, released in 2021, is a gritty, emotional, and dramatic film that deeply explores the bonds of friendship, parenthood, social class differences, and vengeance. The film is directed by John Pollono, who also acts and has adapted for the screen his own widely successful 2011 Los Angeles stage drama of the same name. The film boasts an impressive cast led by Jon Bernthal, Shea Whigham, and Jordana Spiro.

Set in the blue-collar town of Manchester, New Hampshire, the story centers around Frank Romanowski, played by John Pollono. Frank is a gruff, hard-nosed small engines repair shop owner who enjoys local fame for his ability to fix anything with an engine. He is also a single dad, trying his best to raise his smart, ambitious daughter Crystal (Ciara Bravo) and give her the opportunities he never had.

The film's main cast includes the wonderfully versatile Jon Bernthal (The Punisher, The Walking Dead), who plays Terrance Swaino, Frank's longtime friend. Swaino is a charismatic, loyal but self-destructive bachelor who loves to party, but as the story unfolds, we see there's more to him than just the tough-guy persona. Shea Whigham (Boardwalk Empire, Joker), plays Packie Hanrahan, another close friend of Frank's and a stand-up, nervous guy who shares a close bond with Swaino and Frank. The trio's chemistry forms the backbone of the movie, taking viewers into a complex exploration of masculinity, friendship, and loyalty in a working-class setting.

On the other hand, there's Jordana Spiro (Ozark, My Boys) who stars as Karen Romanowski, Frank's ex-girlfriend. Despite their tumultuous past and present, the duo shares an unbreakable bond due to their shared interest, the wellbeing of their daughter. Jordana's performance, much like the rest of the cast, is layered, bringing depth to her character, a woman navigating life amidst tumultuous relationships and circumstances.

Small Engine Repair vividly captures themes of parenthood and the lengths to which a parent would go for their child. Frank's bond with his daughter Crystal forms the emotional core of this narrative. The film subtly but effectively portrays the struggles of a single dad, raising a daughter and balancing care and discipline.

Throughout the film, viewers are offered an intimate, unfiltered view of the characters’ world with moments that oscillate between intense tension and heart-warming camaraderie. Setting itself apart from many films of its genre, Small Engine Repair embraces its theatrical roots, with the high-stakes drama unfolding primarily in one location - the repair shop. This contained atmosphere builds up an almost claustrophobic tension, drawing viewers in as the plot takes unexpected turns.

This film also masterfully manages to subtly blend in elements of dark comedy. Despite the heavy themes, there are moments of humour and warmth that come from genuine interactions between friends, adding a layer of realism and relatability to their relationship. This harmonic blend of bleak reality and humor gives the film a unique tone, making it an engaging watch.

The director, John Pollono, impressively moves his work from stage to screen without losing its power, substance, or nuance. Colluding with the stunning performances from the stellar ensemble cast, Pollono’s directorial vision for the film offers an intense, emotional drama laced with fierce friendship and unexpected twists.

Overall, Small Engine Repair is a remarkable film that packs a powerful punch in its exploration of love, friendship, and sacrifice underpinned by an undercurrent of societal critique. Its raw, unapologetic depiction of life’s complexities, combined with heartfelt performances, makes it a must-watch.