★★★★★★½ (6.5/7)
After a botched bank robbery lands his younger brother in prison, Connie Nikas embarks on a twisted odyssey through New York City's underworld to get his brother Nick out of jail. "Good Time" was released in 2017 and was the fifth film directed by the Safdie brothers.
"Good Time" is one of the most stressful films that I have seen in some time. The entire run time of the film had me on the edge of my seat, actively hoping for certain characters to make decisions that would calm the film down. However, these decisions were not made. The journey of Connie Nikas to free his brother from the New York City jail system is a one hour and forty minute long adrenaline rush, and it is a great one.
Like many others, I was very skeptical when I began to hear praise for Robert Pattinson's acting in his post-Twilight career. However, after indulging in the films he's starred in I am officially joining the bandwagon. Pattinson has showed his range in recent performances, but none are on par with his Connie Nikas in "Good Time." Pattinson perfects the desperate brother role which only intensifies the story itself. The most impressive part about Pattinson playing this character is how he is able to show the love Connie has for his brother. One of the underlying plot conflicts of this film is if Connie is truly loving and caring for his brother and this theme is only so emotionally gripping due to Pattinson's delivery.
Benny Safdie, who also co directed this film, adds on an electric performance as Connie's younger brother, Nick. His ability to portray the developmentally disabled brother is amazing. The opening scene in the film sees Nick talking with a therapist. Safdie nails this scene and perfectly shows us the marginalized brother who Connie is trying so hard to protect.
Despite all of these accomplishments, the environment that "Good Time" builds is what made the film so extraordinary for me. The Safdie brothers craft a unique vision of New York that we do not usually see in films- one that examines the small criminal network in NYC. The neon colors paired with the thrilling score make for a very encompassing world.
"Good Time" is definitely an extraordinary viewing experience. I would not describe my experience viewing as a good time, more stressful and intense, but it is a great film nonetheless. The theme of brotherly love along with the extremely engaging environment make "Good Time" a must watch, especially for fans of crime/heist films.
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