‘Never Have I Ever’ VOD Review
Stars: Andrew Lee Potts, Beatrice Fletcher, Amber Doig-Thorne, Graham Skipper, Matt McClure, Poppy Anne Williams, Johnny Vivash, Martina Greenwood | Written by Damon Rickard, Andrew Lee Potts, Mitch Bain | Directed by Damon Rickard
Never Have I Ever, is the first feature film by Damon Rickard and is an impressive debut. Having built up his talents on some short films, including The Tour and The Package, he finally decided to tackle the feature film. The film unfolds as a psychological thriller with an expanding undertone of horror. The plot delves into the tumultuous life of Sam, portrayed by Andrew Lee Potts. Sam is a struggling screenwriter grappling with alcoholism and the looming threat of repaying an advance due to missed deadlines. The creation of a nuanced sense of dread helps the film hold our attention. Sam’s day takes a series of unfortunate turns, culminating in a chance meeting with Mara, played by Beatrice Fletcher, at a local bar. This encounter sets off a chain of events that unravel secrets and challenge perceptions.
Sam is seen as a relatable character for the audience and you can’t help but feel close to him and his issues, despite the teased hints of his downward spiral. The character of Mara is an interesting opposition, as we feel she has some sort of suspicion looming over her, yet through her charismatic and likeable nature, she allows the audience not to focus on it, and instead, we get invested in the dialogue-heavy script which drives the film forward.
Despite a fairly simple script, the film is structured around intense dialogues, especially between Sam and Mara, as they engage in a revealing game of Never Have I Ever. This narrative device serves to peel back layers of their characters, exposing hidden truths and motivations and is easily one of the highlights of the film. The chemistry between Potts and Fletcher is palpable, driving the film’s tension and intrigue.
Although the small budget may limit the cast and setting, the closeness of the film helps create a style which serves the plot well and leaves the film feeling larger than its production. Pair with this a great score from Mitch Bain which matches the feel of the film, and you have a truly resourceful and impressive display.
While its pacing may not appeal to all, the film offers a compelling narrative bolstered by strong central performances and just when the audience begins to feel some sort of understanding, it has the ability to subvert your thoughts completely, not allowing the audience to breathe for a minute and creating tension in the heart of the viewer.
Never Have I Ever is out now on digital and on-demand from One Tree Entertainment.