Test

The movie Test is a nuanced and atmospheric drama released in 2013, directed and written by Chris Mason Johnson. The main characters are brought to life by the charismatic performances of Scott Marlowe, known for his roles in independent films, and Matthew Risch, an accomplished theater actor, alongside the promising newcomer Evan Boomer.

The plot is primarily set against the dramatic backdrop of San Francisco in the 1980s, offering a vivid snapshot of a city, and indeed an era, gripped with anxiety and fear due to the looming AIDS crisis. This fright is so potent that the San Francisco Health Department, seen in the film, is giving out free HIV tests, hence the title, "Test."

The protagonist of Test is a young and aspiring modern dancer, Frankie, played by Scott Marlowe, who is struggling to make it big in his career while dealing with the terrifying specter of the AIDS epidemic. His character is a timid, introverted young man, often overshadowed in his dance troupe, who must navigate the complicated politics of his workplace, his budding sexuality, and the harsh realities of a world that might be more dangerous than he initially imagined. Marlowe's portrayal of Frankie is commendable, capturing the wide-eyed innocence, vulnerability, and quiet determination of his character with depth and sensitivity.

Matthew Risch, on the other hand, masterfully portrays Todd, a confident, outgoing member of the dance troupe. His character is the complete antithesis of Frankie. Todd stands tall as the epitome of the carefree and brazenly sensual energy of the era, unencumbered by the anxiety that plagues Frankie. Yet beneath the surface of this charismatic free-spirit lies a realist who understands the gravity of the situation.

Evan Boomer, who plays one of the dancers in the same troupe, adds another layer of complexity to the plot. He seamlessly integrates into the narrative and supports the main protagonists in realizing their roles.

While the threat of a deadly new disease looms in the background, the movie zooms in to focus on the intricate dynamics within the dance troupe. The world of modern dance is not simply a backdrop for the film, but integral to the storytelling. The physically demanding and emotionally fraught dance sequences serve as a metaphor for the characters' internal struggles and desires. Themes of love, jealousy, competition, fear are all intricately woven into the narrative through their interactions, dance sequences, and performances.

Test is, at its heart, a character-driven film. Director Johnson explores the contrasting personalities and how they deal with the threat of AIDS, creating a cocktail of fear, intrigue, understanding, and quiet resilience. While focusing on the characters' personal lives, Johnson also incorporates the bigger societal picture – heteronormative assumptions, discrimination and fear associated with AIDS, and the beginning of a much-needed conversation about sexual health.

Contrasting the tense dramatic moments, Test has its lighter side as well. It captures the uninhibited joy of dance, the pulsating energy of the San Francisco nightlife, the thrill of new friendships and infatuations, complemented perfectly by a vibrant 80's synth-heavy score that transports viewers straight back to that decade.

Test is more than just a historical film about the AIDS crisis of the 1980s, it provides an understanding of how the characters navigate the personal and professional challenges thrown at them due to the looming health catastrophe. It addresses the AIDS crisis not through sensationalism, political grandstanding or tragedy, but via an intensely personal and humane perspective of individuals whose lives are deeply affected by it.

This film is a must-watch for fans of character-driven dramas, sensitive storytelling, and films that tackle important but complex social issues with grace. Poignant, thoughtful, and intimate, Test paints a vivid picture of a fear-stricken era and the people who dance to endure. It stands as a testament to the unsung heroes who stood tall amidst a crisis, and will likely spark a conversation that's still relevant today. Test offers a fearlessness much like its characters, and is a powerful story about resilience, acceptance, and the enduring human spirit.