Things Will Be Different: Review
Imagine diving into a film so inventive it feels like you've slipped into a time-traveling wormhole. Things Will Be Different is precisely that—a dazzling cosmic adventure that marks the brilliant debut of writer/director Michael Felker. In a genre bursting with imagination, the creative team behind this film shines brightly, demonstrating a knack for blending complex ideas with compelling storytelling.
As executive producers, Benson and Moorhead add their unique touch to Things Will Be Different, elevating it to a standout experience in contemporary science fiction. This isn’t just another sci-fi flick; it’s a tantalizing puzzle that invites viewers to engage in post-movie debates, perfect for those late-night discussions at the coffee shop. The heart of the film beats in the dynamic relationship between siblings Joseph (played with profound intensity by Adam David Thompson) and Sydney (the formidable Riley Dandy). They embark on a heist intended to secure a better future for Sydney, with Joseph as the dedicated older brother and Sydney as the fiercely independent younger sister.
The adventure kicks off in an abandoned farmhouse, which serves as a gateway to a realm beyond time and space. Joseph's meticulous instructions guide them through a series of quirky objects—a closet, an old phone, and an array of clocks—leading to a dimension that defies conventional boundaries. Cinematographer Carissa Dorson captures this otherworldly transition with a striking visual flair, transforming the scene into a dreamlike plunge into the unknown.
Once they arrive in their surreal hideout, the film evolves into a playful and mind-bending escapade. We are treated to a lively montage of their timeline vacation—a sort of intergalactic getaway where they indulge in drinking, dancing, and bonding. The film’s soundtrack enhances this journey with a vibrant, immersive score that complements the film’s otherworldly atmosphere.
But as the plot thickens, Joseph and Sydney find themselves ensnared in their cosmic refuge. An enigmatic force communicates through vintage technology—tape recorders, signposts, and safes—demanding they follow a series of cryptic instructions to secure their escape. This approach, reminiscent of finding a sci-fi treasure map in a forgotten attic, adds an intriguing layer of mystery.
Things Will Be Different excels in its ambition, weaving together intricate plot elements and emotional depth. It’s a film that may not reveal all its secrets on a single viewing, but the journey is worth revisiting. Felker masterfully guides us through this labyrinth of ideas, with the sibling relationship at the core of the narrative providing a steady anchor.
In a genre often weighed down by high-tech dazzle, Things Will Be Different pirouettes into the sci-fi realm with a playful and refreshing spin. It reimagines the genre, mixing imaginative storytelling with genuine human moments. Get ready for a film that’s as inventive as it is memorable—a shining gem in the vast universe of science fiction.