Good Time

If you’re looking to dive into the chaotic depths of a brotherly bond gone awry, 'Good Time' might just be your cup of tea. However, don’t expect a straightforward uplifting tale; it’s as gritty as they come.

A Brother's Desperate Quest

The film follows Connie Nikas, played by Robert Pattinson, who attempts to save his mentally disabled brother, Nick (Benny Safdie), after a botched bank robbery lands him in prison. This sets Connie on a wild and desperate run through New York City’s criminal underbelly. As the night unfolds, he encounters a motley crew of individuals, each adding to the mounting tension and unpredictability of his mission. The story is rich with moral ambiguity, capturing the lengths one might go to for family, but drenched in the harsh realities of their choices.

Performances That Reflect Chaos

Robert Pattinson delivers a gritty performance, illustrating Connie's desperation and moral decay. Benny Safdie, while limited in screen time, effectively embodies the vulnerability of Nick, making their bond feel authentic. However, the supporting characters, like Taliah Webster's Crystal and Buddy Duress's Ray, often feel underdeveloped, serving more as plot devices than fully realized individuals. This lack of depth in the cast can detract from the emotional stakes as the film progresses, making moments that should hit harder feel somewhat hollow.

Visually Gritty Yet Chaotic

Directed by Benny and Josh Safdie, the film's visual style immerses viewers in a neon-lit nightmare. The camera work is frenetic, mirroring Connie's torrid chase and increasing the sense of urgency. While this approach effectively conveys a sense of chaos, it can also lead to moments of disorientation and fatigue. The editing is sharp, cutting between tense moments and quieter scenes, but can sometimes feel overly frantic. The visuals succeed in creating a grimy, immersive atmosphere, yet may alienate those who prefer more straightforward cinematography.

A Tense, Exhausting Experience

Watching 'Good Time' is both engaging and frustrating—its relentless pacing keeps you on edge, but it can also feel exhausting. The film’s tension works well in parts, especially when Connie is on the brink of collapse, yet there are stretches where the narrative feels repetitive. As characters make increasingly dubious choices, the viewer may find themselves grappling with more annoyance than empathy. This emotional rollercoaster can lead to moments of boredom, where the frantic energy turns into a tedious cycle of crisis.