This Movie Is Broken

This Movie is Broken, directed by Bruce McDonald, released in 2010, is a Toronto-centric blend of music, love, and the fleeting nature of summer. This Canadian film offers a unique narrative experience, combining a romantic drama with a live concert film. The film features performances by iconic Canadian band Broken Social Scene, songwriter Kevin Drew, as well as versatile actors Georgina Reilly, Gregory Ambrose Calderone, and Kjartan Hewitt.

The story primarily revolves around Bruno (Gregory Ambrose Calderone), a young man entrapped in the quandaries of his emotional hankering for Caroline (Georgina Reilly), a childhood friend he's secretly loved for years. Bruno's love for Caroline is fierce and unrequited, and when Caroline reveals she plans to leave for Paris to pursue her academic ambitions, Bruno finds himself in a harrowing emotional struggle. Caroline’s prospective departure, fear of rejection, and his own conflicting feelings present a slew of unsettling dilemmas for this committed, albeit thwarted, lover. Yet, a thrilling opportunity to express his feelings arises when Broken Social Scene, Caroline's favorite band, announces an impromptu concert in their hometown of Toronto. Seeing the perfect opportunity to express his love, Bruno pulls all stops to give Caroline a night she will remember.

The movie offers a unique perspective by blending the narrative of an unrequited love story with the rambunctious energy of a live concert. Rather than focusing simply on Bruno and Caroline's relationship and his romantic desperation, the band Broken Social Scene makes a significant appearance. Injected into the narrative are performances from a real-life free concert by the band at Toronto's Harbourfront, compiled with multiple camera perspectives. The director intercuts scenes from Broken Social Scene's concert with the unfolding narrative. It is an unusual structure that flourishes, providing a touching and immersive experience that never loses focus of its central story.

Music plays an integral part in the storytelling of This Movie is Broken, serving as the metaphorical soundtrack of characters' lives. At its core, the story explores a menagerie of complex themes, such as unrequited love, the torment of lost opportunities, and the fervour of chasing one's dreams. Moreover, it highlights the undeniable connection people feel with music, and how it becomes an integral part in shaping their narratives. In this case, Broken Social Scene's music sets the tone and rhythm for the love narrative, simultaneously playing out Bruno's and Caroline's emotionally fraught experiences. The concert sequences of the film present a stunning portrait of Toronto and its vibrant music scene, adding depth to the city and its inhabitants.

Georgina Reilly gives an outstanding performance as Caroline, a young woman captivated by the siren call of new experiences and her pursuit of education in an unfamiliar city. She perfectly captures the essence of a conflicted woman, torn between following her desires and the significant relationships she will have to leave behind. Calderone, as Bruno, displays a striking portrayal of a love-stricken man stranded on the edge of his emotions. His performance encapsulates the hope, fear, and yearning with a visceral authenticity. Kjartan Hewitt, who plays Bruno's friend Blake, brings a charismatic and steady presence to the film, and his scenes provide both comic relief and insightful commentary.

Overall, This Movie is Broken offers a blend of a touching love story combined with the electric energy of live concert footage, set against the backdrop of a city that adds a unique flavour to the narrative, It's an exquisite layering of two genres that vibrate off each other wonderfully, creating a diverse pastiche of-in-the-moment concert verve and emotionally charged personal tales. Whether you're watching it because of your love for Broken Social Scene and their music, or you're drawn in by the tenderness of the central love story, this film offers an engaging experience. From the directorial prowess of Bruce McDonald to the robust performances of its cast, and the invigorating energy of its musical elements, This Movie is Broken is a compelling exploration into the realms of love, music, and youthful dreams.