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Movie Review: “Cicada”
Have you ever watched a movie that leaves you emotionally drained, but in a good way? That’s exactly how I felt after watching “Cicada”. This indie drama film premiered at the 2020 San Francisco International Film Festival and has been gaining popularity since.
The Storyline
The story revolves around Ben (David Sedaris), a gay man living in New York City who is haunted by past traumas. He meets Sam (writer/director Matthew Fifer), a bisexual man with his own past struggles, and the two begin a romantic relationship. Throughout the film, we see both men confront their demons and work through their issues together.
The Plot
The plot may seem simple at first glance, but it’s the way it’s executed that really sets this film apart. The pacing is slow, but intentionally so. It allows for the characters to breathe and for the audience to really feel their emotions. The flashbacks are well-placed and effective in conveying each character’s past.
The Cast
David Sedaris and Matthew Fifer give outstanding performances as Ben and Sam, respectively. Their chemistry is palpable and their struggles feel genuine. Other notable performances include Jason Greene as Ben’s roommate and Cobie Smulders as his therapist.
The Popularity
“Cicada” has been making waves in the indie film world since its premiere at the San Francisco International Film Festival. It has been praised for its honest portrayal of trauma and mental health, as well as its authentic representation of the LGBTQ+ community.
The Evaluation
Overall, I thought “Cicada” was a beautifully done film. The cinematography was stunning, with shots of the New York City skyline and close-ups of cicadas adding to the overall mood of the film. The score was also a standout, with hauntingly beautiful piano pieces that perfectly captured the emotions on screen.
The Dialogue
The dialogue in “Cicada” is natural and feels true to life. There are many moments of silence, but they never feel forced or awkward. The conversations between Ben and Sam are raw and honest, and the scenes with Ben’s therapist give us insight into his past trauma.
The Criticism
While I loved “Cicada”, I can see how some viewers might find it slow or uneventful. It’s definitely a character-driven film, so if you’re looking for action or fast-paced plot twists, this might not be the movie for you.
The Production
“Cicada” was filmed on a small budget, which only adds to its charm. The crew did an excellent job of utilizing New York City as a backdrop, making the most out of each location. The editing was seamless and added to the dreamlike quality of the film.
The Special Effects
There aren’t really any special effects in “Cicada”, but the use of cicadas throughout the film is worth mentioning. The sound design is fantastic, with cicadas chirping in the background of many scenes. They serve as a reminder that even in the midst of trauma, nature goes on.
The Analysis
One of the overarching themes of “Cicada” is the idea that we all carry our past traumas with us. It’s something we can’t change, but it’s how we deal with it that matters. Ben and Sam both have to confront their pasts in order to move forward, and by doing so, they’re able to find love and happiness.
The Opinion
As someone who has dealt with their fair share of mental health issues, “Cicada” really spoke to me. It’s a beautiful film that doesn’t shy away from the ugly parts of life. It shows that healing is a journey, and sometimes it’s a messy one. But it’s worth it in the end.
The Scenes
There are so many standout scenes in “Cicada”, but one that really stuck with me was when Ben confronts his abuser at his former workplace. The tension is palpable as Ben lays out all the ways he was wronged. It’s a powerful moment that shows just how far Ben has come.
The Gossip
I haven’t heard much gossip surrounding “Cicada”, but I do know that David Sedaris was a fan of the script and was excited to be a part of the film. His performance is definitely one of the highlights.
The Soundtrack
The soundtrack for “Cicada” is hauntingly beautiful. The piano pieces by composer Curtis Heath perfectly capture the mood of the film. It’s a soundtrack I could definitely see myself listening to outside of the movie.
The Conclusion
I highly recommend “Cicada” to anyone who enjoys character-driven dramas that tackle tough subject matter. It’s a film that will stick with you long after the credits roll.