The 1997 romantic comedy Chasing Amy brings up an interesting question: could this film be made today? If you ask different people, you will get a variety of answers. Directed by Kevin Smith, Chasing Amy follows the story of Holden (played by Ben Affleck), a comic book artist who is in love with Alyssa (played by Joey Lauren Adams). Holden is a lovesick character who falls head over heels for Alyssa, a confident and charming woman.
But there is a significant issue—Alyssa is an outspoken lesbian. While she desires a genuine friendship with Holden, she shows no romantic interest in men. This leads them both on a journey of self-exploration and sexuality, which surprises them along the way.
When considering whether Chasing Amy could be made in today’s context, I firmly believe the answer is “absolutely not.” However, that does not mean the film is without value. It stands out as Kevin Smith’s most emotional work. Although the film has some outdated terms and plot elements, it still feels ahead of its time in discussing fluid sexuality, especially in the context of the 1990s.
Despite the complex feelings many viewers have regarding the film, Chasing Amy was a significant success for Smith when it was released. It received positive reviews from critics, including a glowing recommendation from the famous Roger Ebert. The film made over $12 million at the box office, while it was produced on a budget of only $250,000.
This success established Chasing Amy as a notable work, even as it remains divisive, particularly among members of the queer community portrayed in the film. Some view it as a groundbreaking classic that depicts fluid sexuality in a way that many other films have not. Others criticize it as an outdated representation that reinforces harmful stereotypes about queer identities.
Even seasoned documentarians might shy away from tough questions in favor of a celebratory documentary about a beloved film. However, first-time filmmaker Sav Rodgers does not take that route in his engaging directorial debut, Chasing Chasing Amy.
This documentary provides an honest and multifaceted look at the legacy of a film that holds great significance for him. Rather than ignore the legitimate criticisms the film has received, Chasing Chasing Amy confronts these issues directly. At the same time, Sav eloquently shares how the 1997 film dramatically changed his life.
What is Chasing Chasing Amy About?
Sav Rodgers’ connection to Chasing Amy began with the Marvel superhero film Daredevil. This interest led him on a quest to watch all the movies starring Ben Affleck, which eventually brought him to Chasing Amy. The impact of the film was profound; Sav credits it with saving his life, especially considering his experiences as a closeted teenager who faced bullying.
This powerful story was shared in a TED Residency talk that went viral, attracting the attention of prominent figures like Marvel star Brie Larson, original Chasing Amy star Ben Affleck, and the film’s writer and director, Kevin Smith. After hearing Sav’s story, these individuals reached out to him, which marked the beginning of a significant journey.
In Chasing Chasing Amy, Sav’s deep relationships with the film’s subjects shine through. Kevin Smith is known for being a relatable and approachable filmmaker, a quality that comes across in his conversations with Sav. What could have easily turned into mere admiration instead feels like a meaningful exchange between two peers in the filmmaking world.
Another important figure in the documentary is Sav’s partner, Riley Rodgers, who has greatly influenced Sav’s life both personally and professionally. Their chemistry on screen is attracting and genuine, showcasing a bond that even the best romantic screenwriters would find hard to replicate.
At its heart, Chasing Chasing Amy provides a profound examination of the ups and downs in a filmmaker’s life and how discovering a significant movie influenced Sav’s development. While the title suggests a focus on the 1997 film, it is equally about Sav himself.
Although Sav is the filmmaker behind the camera, his authenticity shines through, making him feel like both the interviewer and the interviewee. This level of honesty is further amplified by the dramatic changes in Sav’s life while making the documentary, which remain central throughout the film’s 90-minute duration.
Multiple Perspectives on a Controversial Film
Chasing Chasing Amy begins with Sav asking, “Do you understand why I love this movie?” The first response he receives is a firm “No.” Many people, both in and out of the queer community, believe that Chasing Amy promotes ideas that can be seen as derogatory towards those who identify as LGBTQ+.
This perspective is understandable. Several interviewees in Chasing Chasing Amy point out a problematic scene from the original film, where Alyssa falls for Holden. In this scene, they share a romantic kiss in the rain, suggesting that a lesbian can be swayed into heterosexuality after an emotional monologue from a man.
Sav’s documentary does not shy away from these criticisms. Instead, it highlights them while also expressing Sav’s positive feelings about the original movie. While he praises Chasing Amy for showcasing characters with fluid sexualities, he does not claim it is perfect or universally loved.
He acknowledges that he was unaware of other significant films about queer identity that were released during the same time and could have served as better introductions to the LGBTQ+ community. Sav’s main point is not to label Chasing Amy as the ultimate example of LGBTQ+ storytelling; it is simply the first film that revealed to him that such stories existed.
This duality is illustrated in a memorable section of the documentary where both Kevin Smith and Joey Lauren Adams discuss their complicated feelings about Chasing Amy’s legacy. This moment represents a crucial turning point in the film.
However, it also briefly loses focus when comparing their memories of the controversial distributor Harvey Weinstein. While it is certainly valid to discuss Weinstein’s crimes, this topic feels somewhat disconnected from the documentary’s main themes of self-acceptance, representation, and the meaningful conversation about cinema.
Valuable Perspectives on Film Discussions
A striking quote in Chasing Chasing Amy comes from writer Princess Weekes, who says, “Something that’s problematic can still mean a lot in your development.” In an age where online film discussions often boil down to simple judgments like “it’s good” or “it’s bad,” Chasing Chasing Amy serves as an important reminder that conversations about film can be nuanced.
The documentary also emphasizes the significance of meaningful representation in cinema. This representation provides marginalized voices with an opportunity to be heard, even if it is not the primary goal of a film. The final scene of Chasing Chasing Amy feels like Sav is saying a bittersweet goodbye to this chapter of his life. Moving forward, Sav Rodgers is ready to embrace a promising filmmaking career.
As the documentary progresses, it becomes clear that Sav’s journey is about more than just a film. It is about personal growth, acceptance, and the influence that movies can have on our lives. The conversations he has with various figures, including Smith and Adams, add layers of understanding about the complexities of filmmaking and representation.
Analyzing the Legacy of Chasing Amy
Chasing Amy reflects its time, presenting a story that has been both celebrated and criticized. On one hand, it challenged norms and brought forward conversations about sexual identity and fluidity.
On the other hand, it also sparked debates regarding its portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships and experiences. The impact of the film cannot be denied, as it opened doors for discussions that continue to this day.
Through Sav’s lens, we witness how Chasing Amy has shaped not just his life but also the lives of many others. The documentary highlights the importance of engaging with films critically while also recognizing the personal connections they can forge.
Sav’s reflections on his experiences as a closeted teenager resonate deeply. His narrative shows that films like Chasing Amy can provide solace and understanding to those struggling with their identities. While some may criticize the film for its flaws, it remains a pivotal work that speaks to the complexities of love and desire.
Understanding Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of Chasing Amy has evolved over the years. Initially, it was hailed for its progressive take on sexuality, yet as societal views have shifted, so too have the film’s interpretations. It serves as a historical marker for LGBTQ+ representation in cinema, illustrating how far the industry has come and how much further it has to go.
In today’s show, conversations about representation, inclusivity, and the portrayal of diverse identities are more prominent than ever. Filmmakers are challenged to create narratives that reflect the reality of their characters authentically. Sav’s documentary underscores the importance of continuing this dialogue and encourages filmmakers to consider the impact of their stories on viewers.
Personal Growth Through Film
Ultimately, Chasing Chasing Amy is about personal growth and self-discovery. It demonstrates how films can influence individuals and communities. Sav’s journey reveals the healing power of storytelling and the importance of having diverse narratives in cinema.
By engaging with the complexities of Chasing Amy, both positively and negatively, Sav encourages viewers to reflect on their relationships with films. He shows that while some movies may have problematic elements, they can still hold significance in one’s development.
Future of Filmmaking and Representation
Looking ahead, the future of filmmaking is bright with the promise of new voices and perspectives. As more filmmakers share their stories, the hope is for more authentic and inclusive representations of various identities. Sav’s work serves as a catalyst for these discussions, inspiring others to examine their experiences and the stories they want to tell.
Still from Chasing Chasing Amy (Credit: Tribecca)
The importance of platforms like Chasing Chasing Amy cannot be understated. They encourage critical conversations about representation, self-acceptance, and the ways films shape our understanding of ourselves and others. By fostering an environment where diverse narratives are celebrated, we can create a more inclusive cinematic show.
Conclusion: A Story of Connection and Change
Chasing Chasing Amy offers a rich scheme of the impact of Chasing Amy on individual lives and the broader cultural show. It serves as a reminder of the importance of storytelling in fostering understanding and connection among people.
Sav Rodgers’ journey demonstrates that while films may be flawed, their ability to inspire and challenge societal norms is invaluable. As the world of filmmaking continues to evolve, the legacy of Chasing Amy and its subsequent discussions will undoubtedly remain significant.
Wake up, kiddo. It is time to watch another Liam Neeson action movie. Since starring in the big hit Taken, Liam Neeson has become the king of “old man action movies.” He has even made more movies than other action stars like Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger in recent years. It is easy to see why. Neeson has shown many times that he can handle fight scenes. He is also a great actor who can show deep feelings even while fighting.
However, the collection of action movies starring Liam Neeson has had mixed results, especially in recent years. For every good movie like The Grey and Non-Stop, there are more average films like Memory and Retribution. Neeson’s latest action movie, Absolution, falls more into the average category. It is similar to many other crime thrillers and does not stand out even among Neeson’s own films.
Absolution Is Less of an Action Film and More of a Character Drama
Absolution is directed by Hans Petter Moland, who worked with Neeson before on Cold Pursuit in 2019. In Absolution, Neeson plays a tough enforcer who has been working for the same crime boss for thirty years. His life changes when he learns that he has an aggressive type of dementia.
Doctors say he only has a few years before his mind completely fails. This news forces our tough main character to think about his past choices and try to reconnect with his family.
Liam Neeson continues to show that he is a skilled action star with his strong presence and his willingness to do fight scenes. However, Absolution does not offer much for fans who crave nonstop action. Fortunately, the film is stronger in the drama department, which is what the film does best. Most of the movie focuses on Neeson’s character as he faces his own mortality and tries to make peace with his past mistakes.
Besides some silly dream sequences where Neeson’s character finds himself on a boat in the ocean, and some awkward editing, Absolution manages to create a compelling story about Neeson’s character who regrets his criminal life. This success is largely due to Neeson’s acting skills.
Liam Neeson Is as Consistent as Ever in Absolution
Absolution uses Liam Neeson’s talents very well, making his performance the best part of the movie. The tough and serious personality that fans love from films like Taken is present here too. Neeson convincingly plays a criminal who has lied and deceived many people.
Beneath his tough outer layer, he portrays a more vulnerable man. Some of the film’s best scenes show Neeson’s facial expressions and movements that reveal a frustrated man losing touch with reality. He does a solid job with the material he has. However, the script he is given often contains forgettable and generic lines.
The weak writing also affects the other characters in the film. Yolonda Ross plays the caring girlfriend, and Frankie Shaw plays the estranged daughter. Both characters seem to fit familiar roles we have seen many times in similar films. Although they are important to the story, they do not seem interesting or well-developed.
Their presence feels less significant because they lack depth. Furthermore, Absolution does not utilize the talents of Ron Perlman, who plays the crime boss. Perlman has shown before that he can portray a powerful mob boss in films like Drive, but here his role is almost like a cameo and adds nothing to the movie.
Absolution Cannot Escape the Shadow of Other Liam Neeson Films
Absolution tries so hard to be a typical Liam Neeson film that it forgets to give him anything new or exciting to do. The themes and concepts in Absolution are very similar to those in other films Neeson has starred in.
For instance, the main idea of an aging enforcer wanting to leave his violent lifestyle is very much like what we see in Run All Night and In the Land of Saints and Sinners. Both of those movies offer the action and excitement that Absolution lacks.
This is not even the first Liam Neeson film where he plays an action hero facing mental decline. Less than two years ago, he starred in Memory, where he also played a trained assassin who begins to forget important parts of his life. While Absolution seems more focused on character drama than pure action, it is hard not to compare it to Neeson’s other films.
In short, Absolution does not do enough to stand out from the similar films in Liam Neeson’s action resume. It frustratingly relies on themes from his past work, even though it is a story about confronting one’s history. While the film tries to show Neeson’s character as a real person rather than just a tough fighter, the clichéd screenplay makes it likely to become another forgettable entry in Neeson’s filmography.
A Deeper Look at the Film’s Themes
Now, let’s take a deeper look at the themes present in Absolution. The film is primarily about a man confronting his mortality and trying to find peace with his past. This theme is important as it makes the story relatable to many viewers.
Liam Neeson’s character struggles with his health condition. As he learns about his dementia, he realizes that he needs to change his ways. This reflects the universal human experience of facing one’s mortality. We all have to confront our choices and the consequences of our actions. This can be a powerful message for the audience. It reminds viewers that it is never too late to make amends and try to reconnect with loved ones.
In Absolution, Neeson’s character attempts to reach out to his family. He tries to mend his relationships, especially with his estranged daughter. This aspect of the film highlights the importance of family and the need for connection. It shows that even a hardened criminal can feel regret and desire to improve himself.
The Balance Between Action and Drama
One of the criticisms of Absolution is its imbalance between action and drama. While Liam Neeson is known for his action-packed roles, this film focuses more on his character’s internal struggle. It shifts away from the thrilling action sequences that many fans expect.
Still from Absolution (Credit: Samuel Goldwyn Films)
The film does include some action scenes, but they are not the primary focus. Instead, the film highlights Neeson’s character’s emotional journey. This is a bold choice, but it may not sit well with all audiences. Some fans may feel disappointed that the film does not deliver the intense action they are used to from Neeson’s previous films.
However, the choice to focus on character development can also be seen as a positive aspect. It shows that the filmmakers want to give Neeson more than just fight scenes. They aim to show the complexity of his character and the effects of his choices on his life. This approach can resonate with viewers looking for depth in storytelling.
Comparing Absolution to Other Liam Neeson Films
As previously mentioned, Absolution shares similarities with many of Liam Neeson’s other films. It is essential to compare these films to understand where Absolution fits in.
Films like Taken and The Grey are known for their thrilling action and engaging plots. Neeson’s characters in those films are often driven by a clear purpose, which keeps the audience engaged.
In Taken, he is a father determined to save his daughter. In The Grey, he is a man fighting for survival against nature. Both films provide a strong motivation for Neeson’s characters, leading to intense action scenes that attracts the audience.
In contrast, Absolution lacks that strong motivation. Neeson’s character is dealing with his health issues and trying to reconnect with his family. While these are important themes, they do not create the same level of excitement that action fans may expect. The film does have moments of tension, but they are not enough to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
The Role of Supporting Characters
The supporting characters in Absolution play vital roles in the story. However, many of them feel like familiar stereotypes that do not bring much to the film.
For instance, Yolonda Ross’s character as the caring girlfriend is predictable. Similarly, Frankie Shaw’s role as the estranged daughter does not offer anything new. These characters could have been more developed to provide a richer experience for the audience.
Ron Perlman, who plays the crime boss, also has a limited role. His character is underused, and this is disappointing considering Perlman’s talent. He could have brought a more menacing presence to the film, but instead, he feels more like a background character. This lack of strong supporting roles contributes to the film’s failure to engage viewers fully.
Cinematic Techniques and Direction
In addition to character development and themes, the direction and cinematography of Absolution play a significant role in how the story is told. Directed by Hans Petter Moland, the film has a distinct visual style that sets it apart from other action films. However, the direction does not fully capitalize on Neeson’s strengths as an action star.
The pacing of the film can be uneven at times. Some scenes feel drawn out, which can cause viewers to lose interest. While moments of introspection are essential for character development, they must be balanced with engaging storytelling.
The editing can also feel choppy, which detracts from the film’s full flow and impact. These issues can lead to a frustrating viewing experience, as audiences may find themselves waiting for the action to pick up.
On the positive side, there are moments of visual storytelling that effectively convey the character’s emotional state. For instance, the use of lighting and camera angles often reflects Neeson’s character’s internal struggles.
In scenes where he is grappling with his diagnosis, dim lighting and close-up shots emphasize his vulnerability. These artistic choices add depth to the film, showcasing the director’s intention to focus on the character’s emotional journey.
Audience Reception and Critical Response
Upon its release, Absolution garnered a mixed response from critics and audiences alike. Some praised Neeson’s performance as a highlight of the film, appreciating his ability to bring depth to a troubled character. Critics noted that Neeson’s charisma still shines through, even when the material is lacking.
However, many viewers expressed disappointment in the lack of thrilling action sequences. This division in reception highlights the challenges the film faces in appealing to Neeson’s fan base.
The film has been described as being more suited for viewers looking for character-driven narratives rather than those seeking explosive action. This distinction may affect its box office performance, as action films generally perform better when they deliver high-octane thrills.
While Absolution attempts to carve out a niche in the action genre by prioritizing drama, it risks alienating viewers who come expecting the adrenaline-fueled excitement typical of Neeson’s previous works.
The Future of Liam Neeson in Action Films
As Liam Neeson continues to age, his future in action films raises questions about the direction his career will take. Will he remain the leading man in action movies, or will he shift toward more dramatic roles? Absolution hints at the potential for Neeson to take on more character-driven narratives that show deeper emotional themes. However, the question remains whether this is what audiences want to see from him.
Neeson has mentioned in interviews that he enjoys the challenges of playing complex characters. As he sees the view of his career, it is essential for him to choose roles that align with his interests while also appealing to his fan base. Films that blend action with character development may be the way forward, allowing him to maintain his status as an action star while also going into more profound themes.
Conclusion: A Mixed Bag of Drama and Action
Absolution is a film that strives to be more than just another entry in Liam Neeson’s action filmography. It attempts to balance character drama with action, focusing on themes of mortality, redemption, and the consequences of past actions.
Still from Absolution (Credit: Samuel Goldwyn Films)
While Neeson’s performance remains a standout aspect, the film’s reliance on familiar tropes and clichéd dialogue holds it back.
The film’s uneven pacing, underdeveloped supporting characters, and lack of engaging action sequences contribute to its mixed reception. Ultimately, Absolution may find its place as a character study rather than an action film, which could appeal to a niche audience but may leave traditional action fans disappointed.
As Neeson continues to see his career, it will be interesting to see how he balances the expectations of his audience with his desire to take on challenging and meaningful roles.
