The Unbelievable Truth

The Unbelievable Truth is an accomplished feature film debut by American independent director Hal Hartley. Released in 1989, this charmingly unique romantic comedy stars Adrienne Shelly, Robert John Burke, and Chris Cooke in the principal roles. The film perfectly builds a snapshot of the late '80s suburban culture with an absurdist twist, making it a timeless piece of indie cinema history.

Adrienne Shelly plays the role of Audry Hugo, a bright, but decidedly peculiar high school graduate, whose apocalyptic, paranoid meditations on the imminent end of the world intrigue and bemuse her peers and parents. Audry's unique perspective on life constrains her ability to discuss banal day-to-day affairs with her friends and family but makes her particularly fascinated by a stranger with a mysterious past recently returned in town, Josh Hutton.

Robert John Burke plays the enigmatic Josh Hutton, a prodigal son who returns to his Long Island hometown after a stint in prison. He's a man of few words but with a mysterious allure, and his formidable appearance belies a paternal nature and practical wisdom. His past involves a wrongful murder conviction and a disquieting romantic tragedy, only adding to his mystique.

Chris Cooke portrays the character of Pearl, Audry's father, a successful businessman with an unconventional approach to parenting. This eccentric figure adds a comic layer to the film, bringing levity to the narrative and resulting in delightfully absurd interactions among characters.

The characters’ lives in The Unbelievable Truth weave a complicated web of relationships, secrets, and half-truths that are slowly revealed to the audience. The twists and turns the plot takes generate a deliciously unpredictable storyline.

Balancing the light-hearted humor of the situations and dialogues, the film doesn't shy away from exploring deeper societal issues. The relationship between Audry and Josh reflects a commentary on societal norms and the suffocating structures imposed on young individuals. The film’s use of irony, absurdism, and dry humor sets it apart from traditional romantic comedies, making it an interesting watch for those looking for something beyond the usual tropes.

The Unbelievable Truth is a classic example of Hartley's impactful work, with its poetic and philosophical dialogue, off-beat characters, and an aptly layered narrative. The film, at its core, is a quirky tribute to the growing pains of youth, emphasizing on the exploration of beliefs, values, and the direction of one's life amid societal expectations.

With its distinctive style and thematic richness, The Unbelievable Truth also counts as a powerful visual narrative brilliantly captured by cinematographer Michael Spiller. The quiet charm of Long Island suburbia is contrasted with the chaotic inner lives of the characters making it engaging to watch. The soundtrack by Jim Coleman adds to the atmospheric charm of the movie, while Hal Hartley's directorial style adds an element of quirkiness to the narrative that makes it so distinguishable from others of its genre.

Further, the performances of Adrienne Shelly and Robert John Burke offer a masterclass in understated acting. They successfully build a delicate and peculiar romance between their characters amidst the absurdity unfolding around them. The supporting cast, with a special mention to Chris Cooke, ensures that the eccentric world of The Unbelievable Truth is greatly believable and compelling.

In conclusion, The Unbelievable Truth is a distinctive and intelligent film that combines irony with a unique romantic tale set against the backdrop of a suburban landscape. The movie’s examination of complex themes in an eccentric setting, bolstered by the top-notch performance of its cast, ensures audiences are offered an entertaining, thought-provoking, and thoroughly enjoyable cinematic experience.