Tao of Steve

Tao of Steve, released in 2000, is a witty and thoughtful indie film that effectively combines romantic comedy tropes with philosophical musings. The movie features Donal Logue in the lead role, accompanied by talented supporting cast members such as Ayelet Kaznelson and John Hines. Directed by Jenniphr Goodman and written by her sister, Greer Goodman, who also stars in the film, the movie takes a fresh approach to the well-worn genre of romantic comedy by giving the film a unique philosophical twist.

Set in the picturesque town of Santa Fe, New Mexico, Tao of Steve introduces viewers to the charismatic yet underachieving Dex (Donal Logue). A part-time kindergarten teacher and full-time bon vivant, Dex is far from the conventional movie heartthrob. With a fondness for marijuana and a tendency to overindulge in food and drink, Dex is more the charming, slacker type than the standard Hollywood hunk.

Dex, despite his lackadaisical lifestyle and somewhat rotund physique, exudes an enigmatic charisma that almost magnetically attracts women. His appeal seems paradoxical until we are introduced to the "Tao of Steve" - an ingenious and methodically crafted set of rules Dex employs to win over the women he meets. The "Steve" in Dex's philosophical code is an amalgamation of cool, iconic Steves like Steve McQueen, Steve Austin (The Six Million Dollar Man), and Stephen Stills. The Tao is a philosophical concept drawn from eastern thought, specifically Taoism, which signifies the fundamental or true nature of the world. According to Dex, the Tao of Steve is about being desireless, being excellent in one's own nature, and retreating to gain the upper hand.

Dex's seeming mastery of his courting method, however, is dramatically thrown off-kilter when he meets Syd (Greer Goodman), a captivating woman with a fascinating past. The film develops as Dex finds himself grappling with unfamiliar feelings and contradicted principles. Ayelet Kaznelson plays the role of Kira, Dex's friend, and comrade, and adds a layer of concern and camaraderie for Dex. John Hines, on the other hand, plays the role of Rick, and brings to life a character with droll humor that further amplifies the movie's whimsical vibes.

The movie includes elements such as Dex's intellectual ruminations on philosophical concepts and the classic storyline of a playboy meeting his match. Interestingly, despite drawing upon some utterly conventional elements, the overall execution and unique element of Dex's "Tao of Steve" lend the movie a non-formulaic feel.

The intriguing charm of Tao of Steve lies in its humor, well-written dialogues, and standout performances. Logue's skilled, layered performance blends effortless charm with slacker appeal, making Dex's character completely believable and surprisingly likeable. At the same time, Greer Goodman is truly compelling as Syd, bringing depth to her character with a balanced mix of vulnerability and strength.

The chemistry between Logue and Goodman is undeniable, and their interactions form the film's emotional core. Meanwhile, the supporting cast, including Ayelet Kaznelson and other actors, provides strong back up, each character well-drawn and adding to the movie's appeal.

Tao of Steve is also visually engaging, with director Jenniphr Goodman using the stunning landscapes of New Mexico to great effect. The ambient Southwest setting not only provides an aesthetically pleasing backdrop for the story but also plays a subtle role in seamlessly dovetailing with the film's laid-back feel.

In the end, Tao of Steve can be seen as part philosophical treatise, part insightful social commentary, and part romantic comedy. Despite these potentially disparate elements, the film is a cohesive, engaging narrative that successfully draws in the viewer, making it a remarkable and memorable cinematic experience.

In many ways, Tao of Steve is a compassionate exploration of the human endeavor to understand, and sometimes control, the mysterious dynamics of attraction and relationships. Rather than just serving up the same old tired romantic clichés, the movie challenges viewers to look deeper into the very nature of desire and connection, making it an unexpectedly profound romantic comedy. It's a thought-provoking exploration that manages to be engaging and entertaining at the same time, making Tao of Steve a unique and enjoyable cinematic experience.