Sometimes AICN reviewer Sean Archer reporting. "Goodbye Sunrise", which I'm told might change it's title to "Poor White Trash" sets a new standard for the Indie Comedy.
What sets this apart from 99% of the Independent films out there is the quality of the performances. Every single actor in this film is practically perfect.
Sean Young, who is usually sub-par in comedies, shines in as the tough, yet loving mother willing to give up everything for her son. Tony Denman, in a starring role, shows that he has what it takes to become a superstar. Forget pretty-boys like James Vanderbeek and Jason Priestly, Tony Denman is an ACTOR, something Hollywood is desperately running short of. The ever-hot Jaime Pressly scores big as the femme fatale, a role she could probably play in her sleep by now, but this lady shows that she has the chops to make "Sandy" unique. Devane is also shockingly good in a role unlike anything he's ever done, playing the profane, violent lawyer. Jacob Tierney, a rising star, was extremely funny as the off-kilter, explosive living Lenny. But, my biggest kudos go to Jason London who was amazing as the not-so-bright ex-jock who's throwing his life away in a fast-food joint. Supporting parts are solid, with fun cameo's by Emmet Walsh, SNL alum Kazurinsky, improv star Koher, and the brilliant young character actor Patrick Renna.
Tech credits are solid, with the nicest work coming from DOP Kowalski. He brings this zany, Midwest town to life with some beautiful shots. Harper-Thomas, who's costume design won an Emmy on Newsradio, doesn't disappoint with some scene stealing outfits. Set design, lighting, etc. was above average for an Indie. The print I saw was unfinished, and sound was rough, but that should be corrected in post.
The script, which I read several months ago when it was the buzz around town, is simply marvelous, and the work by Addis and Urban really give this film the heart and soul which make it stand out. The only thing which kept this film from getting a perfect 10, was the direction of Addis, who seems, at times, to be trying to hard. A few less cuts and tricky camera-work would have been nice, as it tended to get a tad distracting. He does show promise, and should only improve as he gets his feet wet.
I was, at times, reminded of the early Coen bros. work. If you're a fan of Raising Arizona or Blood Simple, you'll love this. Although, I feel that it should appeal to a wider audience than those films. Great script, great story, great characters, great acting; what else could a film fan ask for?
