New York City Independent Film Festival review:
https://www.nycindieff.com/film/the-suicide-of-james-rider
The film is unique in a way that slowly draws its audience into a very ordinary, yet original storytelling. It is a story about James’ closest friends and how they deal with their grief. From the point of view of Bobby’s (Zach Lane) younger brother, Richie (Andrew Romano), the audience experiences a journey about the meaning and appreciation of life, and how one decides to live their own. It is a brilliant message that millennials can relate to: Worrying about careers, not knowing what you want to do, following societal norms and not choosing to do what makes you happy.
Richie, raised in New Jersey, decides to move in with his brother, Bobby, in Florida. Automatically, the audience sees a difference in lifestyle. Sharing a house with four other carefree, hippy-type individuals, Richie struggles to fit in. Being a responsible adult and working a full-time job, Richie struggles to understand the more artistic, less ambitious people he lives with.
The story is full of metaphors and dialogue about overthinking life decisions, learning to relax, and letting go of things one cannot control. With a few witty comments and rhetorical questions, the story develops into an inspiring message of there not being a wrong or right way to live life.
The highlight of the film is the relationship between Richie and Lexi (Kelly Diegnan). With Lexi being the one most affected by James’s death, she serves as Richie’s guide into the lifestyle he moves into. Their relationship relays the exploration of understanding James as an individual and honoring him at the same time. Their difference in opinion is what drives the story forward.
Besides the brilliant writing, what makes the story powerful is the performance. The deliverance of the dialogue and the comical moments are natural, which draws its audience into the characters. With a production that relies as much on the characters as it does on the dialogue, the film is very successful in being highly selective with its scenes and its significance, to capture the important message of honoring a loved one who impacted many lives.
fredzara.com 