Film Review - Laguna Avenue (2021)

With an opening scene that will immediately divide viewers (then repeated later, in case you missed it) I’m quite sure this independent, somewhat comedy, with an overtly bizarre construct of sci-fi elements and melodramatic romance might just be too weird to hold complete attention.

Filmed in glorious black and white, it is that aesthetic alongside a couple of solid performances that thankfully held my attentiveness, in particular Stephanie Brait, as Rita.

Her offbeat, thoughtful, understanding role of supportive girlfriend to an extremely obnoxious boyfriend highlights her flexible acting skills.

As Rita is often inaccessible her caring dynamic is also unpredictable.

The story of consequence and conspiracy revolves around slob, Russell (Russell Steinberg) who elevates anxiety whenever he’s on screen. Whilst Rita is away, he becomes fixated on new neighbours in an LA apartment that ultimately will change his life and a certain body-part.

Sense and feel of the mentality around this movie is a fine line between experimental or entertaining. Lovely, Felixe De Becker bursts off the screen as Karina. Not only are her clothes cool, but the promiscuous nature she conveys is a wonderful distraction,. I’d love a spin-off short prequel or sequel to the adventures of Karina.

I’m all for indie productions, hard work was obviously put in by all here, this remains interesting, just be prepared as really only recommended for broad minded, fans of cut-rate cyborg futurism.