There is a lot to enjoy in writer/director Freddy Macdonald’s feature film debut, Sew Torn. This dark comedy is a few parts Coen brothers mixed with a little bit of Christopher Nolan and some extremely innovative production design, which is centered around the main characters’ livelihood. Some Rube Goldberg Machine-esque moments demonstrate Macdonald’s creativeness in both writing and visuals. While the tone may not work for everyone, this film is a great debut full of impressive visuals, a story that demands your attention, and solid performances.
Barbara (Eve Connolly) is a mobile seamstress on the verge of losing her shop, which also serves as her home. After a sewing appointment goes awry, she drives into the middle of a drug deal gone wrong. The way she sees it is that she has three choices: commit the “perfect” crime, call the police, or run away. What ensues is a combination of fun and horror, presented in a truly cinematic way.
Connolly’s performance as Barbara is outstanding. The role is quiet for large stretches, but her expressions and eyes convey so much about the character. From the moment she wakes up and we see the intricate pattern of threads that have pull strings which play audio recordings, there is a strong sense of what state of mind she’s in. The circumstances of the story put her in difficult positions, and her thought process is expressed by Connolly’s actions.
The rest of the cast is solid, and they receive some key moments. At first, John Lynch’s character felt a bit over-the-top, and it was hard to tell if it was the performance or the way he was written on the page. Fortunately, as the film plays out, the character takes a clear shape, and he slots right in with what everyone else is doing in the film. It’s hard to talk about much of what happens without possibly spoiling the fun for those who haven’t seen it, but Calum Worthy, K Callan, Ron Cook, Thomas Douglas, Caroline Goodall, and Werner Biermeier are all given moments to shine.
The film opens in such a unique way as it shows Barbara in three distinctly different – yet similarly terrible – moments. It’s unclear what exactly has happened, or what the audience is in for…yet, it should peak anyone’s interest. Then, when Barbara awakens and we are shown this elaborate production design referenced earlier, it’s clear this film has a unique vision and style. No matter what elements of the film may feel familiar, there is a distinctness to this that feels fresh, leaving us excited for what Macdonald has in store for us next.
Sew Torn is one of those films that just works. It starts by demanding your attention – and once it has it, takes you on a well-constructed journey into the life of its main character. The decisions she makes have consequences, and the film loves living inside of them. It’ll be worth your time.
Sew Torn debuted at SXSW on March 10.
Rating: Not Quite Golden, Ponyboy.
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