Routines nearly snuck by me. I’ve been busy covering the summer of film anniversaries. But, I got to see the film and was blown away by how dark it got. I mean, the entire premise is enough to drain the Paxil out of people. Also, it was weird seeing so much nudity in a lower budgeted film. It seems like tastes were skewing away from that, but it serves the story.
Comedians and punk rock have a lot in common. They come in a variety of styles and they’re often undertaken by complete amateurs. Both formats are also slammed with amateurs and audiences that don’t care enough for the craft. When the artists are put against the wall, reality often hits them harder than similar performers.
The film impressed me with its willingness to stay so unpleasant. Never blinking an eye away from how reality and grief come together, I found myself enthralled by the story. Too many modern movies are scared to just rub your face in the awfulness of existence.
Sure, things have a shot at getting better in Routines. It’s just that this film wants you to feel the pain of the characters. Some of it was a little hokey. I mean, how many video stores are left in America? But, that’s a nit pick. However, I have to commend Anita Nicole Brown and her performance. Check it out!
Routines will be submitted to Major Film Festivals in the United States post COVID-19.
