CLOSE (2019)

CLOSE feels like it was directed by 2 different people. Half of it is a movie with slow-burning action sequences as well as quiet dramatic moments where the characters' expressions and actions tell us everything we need to know about them. The other half is a movie where the lines range from clichés to thoughts that these kind of people wouldn't say out loud to oddities that no person would say in the specific situation no matter their personality. Having 2 directors would explain why the performances go through all the levels (from subtle to over-the-top) depending on the scene. Having 2 directors would also explain the bizarre opening. You see, The 2 lead actress' names are shown during the scene without any animation (simple text on a black background). Then, the title is shown with some animation. Then, the scene ends and we get an almost JAMES BOND-like sequence with the rest of the credits. The heart of the story is supposed to be the friendship between young heiress ZOE TANNER and her bodyguard SAM CARLSON, but it's not well-handled. They meet, the scene cuts to the next one right when SAM is about to say something (not like a comedic transition; it's clearly an editing mistake) and they have an argument related to ZOE's life. A few minutes later, ZOE insists that SAM stays at her house. This would make sense if SAM was the only one who calls out her bullshit, but she's not. When the main threat is introduced, they're already acting like close friends. The story starts to lose steam in the last part and it ends with a whimper.

6/10
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