The Incoherents

The Incoherents is an eclectic combination of comedy, music, and dramatic storytelling released in 2019. This film stars Annette O'Toole, Amy Carlson, and Kate Arrington, and explores the realities of chasing dreams, rekindling past passions, and the dynamic theme of rediscovery.

The plot orbits around the middle-aged Bruce Flansburgh, performed by Jeff Auer, who is a discontent corporate lawyer enduring a monotonous life. While he seems to have all the outer trappings of a successful life – a beautiful wife, Amy Carlson’s Judy, a steady job, and a peaceful household – he finds himself irked by the loss of his youthful ambitions. Battling his mid-life crisis, he longs to revive the idealism and aspirations that once existed in his life.

Bruce's internal battle becomes personified in his longing for his long-abandoned dream of becoming a rock star, symbolized by his created yet forgotten rock band from the '90s, "The Incoherents".

So one day, Bruce decides he can't let his dreams slide any further into the past. He contacts his previous bandmates, and, against all odds, reassembles The Incoherents. His bandmates, Jimmy (Walter Hoffman), Tyler (Casey Clark), Liz (Annette O’Toole), and Keith (Alex Emanuel), are equally stuck in their past glories. This serves as a pivotal turning point in the film, as Bruce takes radical steps to reclaim the life he truly desires.

Annette O'Toole provides a profound performance as Liz, the woman who brings sense and grounding energy to the group while simultaneously tackling her own personal growth. Kate Arrington plays Sasha, a strong, independent woman who has her roots in the music business, and whose relationship with Bruce adds a fresh romantic layer to the storyline.

The Incoherents present a unique blend of comedy and drama, with a dose of nostalgia that universally resonates. As Bruce trudges through waves of self-doubt, corporate politics, his disintegrating relationship, and the band's individual challenges, the audience is offered heartwarming humor interlaced with heartfelt moments.

The movie also presents struggles after the '30s from a unique perspective, focusing on the bittersweet encore of forgotten dreams. It’s a reminder that life isn’t necessarily over after a certain age, that no one is ever too old to pursue their passion, and it serves to inspire those facing a mid-life crisis that it’s entirely acceptable, and even beneficial, to revisit one’s past.

Director Jared Barel doesn’t shy away from exploring the repercussions either. The film delves into how the band members have to deal with their strained relationships, family responsibilities, and personal lives, all while reigniting the passion which had long been snuffed out by the overwhelming realities of adult life.

The Incoherents provides a rich soundtrack that serves as the rhythmic pulse of the film, featuring original songs, live performances, and a heart-thumping score that imbibes energy into the narrative. It’s variety in music moments connect the audience with the film’s primary ethos of music and its power to reignite dormant dreams.

The Incoherents is a film that takes its viewers on a journey of rediscovery, depicting the complexities of adulthood and the idealism of former years. It balances humor and drama beautifully while sharing a heartfelt message about dreams, passion and living a fulfilling life. In all its laughter and poignant moments, The Incoherents is a delight for music and film lovers alike, serving as a charming narrative of nostalgic dreams, contemporary struggles and vivacious human spirit.