Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
“It Takes Three” is a delightful coming-of-age comedy that takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster filled with laughter, tears, and heartwarming moments. Directed by talented newcomer Ava Stevenson, this movie breathes new life into the teen genre, reminding us of the power of friendship and introspection.
At its core, “It Takes Three” centers around three high school seniors – Alex (played by an incredibly charismatic John Davis), Daisy (portrayed by the talented Lily Miller), and Max (ably acted by Ethan Thompson). The trio’s worlds collide when they find themselves assigned to work on a school project together. Little do they know that this seemingly ordinary partnership will lead them on a transformative journey.
One of the film’s strongest aspects is its well-crafted plot. While initially presenting itself as a typical teen comedy, “It Takes Three” surprises viewers with its depth and complexity. It skillfully tackles themes such as identity, self-realization, and navigating the uncertainties of teenage life. The story unfolds organically, keeping audiences engaged from start to finish.
The young ensemble cast delivers exceptional performances that bring authenticity to their characters. John Davis effortlessly captures Alex’s charm and vulnerability, making him instantly likable. Lily Miller shines as Daisy with her infectious energy and relatable portrayal of an ambitious yet sensitive teenager. Ethan Thompson adds layers to Max’s character with his nuanced performance depicting the struggle between conformity and individuality.
Ava Stevenson proves herself as a promising director with her keen eye for capturing nuanced emotions. Her skillful direction allows each character’s growth to unfold while maintaining a light-hearted tone throughout the film. Stevenson masterfully balances comedic moments with poignant ones, creating a well-rounded experience for viewers.
The film’s score enhances the narrative beautifully, effectively evoking a range of emotions. Whether it be the heart-pounding soundtrack during pivotal scenes or the gentle melodies that accompany tender moments of introspection, the music carries viewers on an emotional journey.
Visually, “It Takes Three” is a treat for the eyes. The cinematography captures the essence of small-town life, featuring picturesque landscapes and vibrant colors that add depth to each scene. The production design adds authenticity, immersing audiences in the characters’ world.
In terms of special effects, “It Takes Three” does not heavily rely on them. Instead, it focuses on character development and authentic storytelling. While some may expect flashy visuals or CGI-driven sequences from a teen-oriented film, this creative restraint works in favor of the movie’s grounded approach.
The editing is well-paced, allowing viewers to invest in each character’s journey without feeling rushed. Transitions between different story arcs are seamless and contribute to a fluid narrative flow.
What sets “It Takes Three” apart is its ability to evoke a genuine emotional response from its audience. The film tackles universal themes with sincerity and grace, leaving viewers introspective about their own lives and relationships. It resonates deeply with anyone who has ever experienced personal growth through friendship or discovered their true selves amidst adolescent uncertainties.
However, despite its many strengths, there are some minor shortcomings within the film. At times, certain scenes feel rushed or require more development to fully explore the characters’ motivations and conflicts. Additionally, some dialogue exchanges could have benefited from additional depth and subtlety.
Overall, “It Takes Three” is an endearing film that will leave you with a sense of warmth long after the credits roll. Its relatable characters and heartfelt story make it a worthy addition to the coming-of-age genre. This charming movie proves that sometimes it truly does take three – three individuals sharing laughter, tears, and self-discovery – to create something truly extraordinary.
It Takes Three 2021
Release : 2021-09-17
Genre : Romance, Comedy
Runtime : 90
Home Page :
IMDb Page : https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7539904
Company : Gunpowder & Sky
Cast : Jared Gilman as Cy Berger, David Gridley as Chris Newton, Aurora Perrineau as Roxy, Mikey Madison as Kat Walker, Thelonius Serrell-Freed as Alex
Tagline: Love the way you lie.
Overview : When Chris, the coolest guy in school discovers that Roxy sees through his popularity and good looks, he enlists Cy to reverse catfish her-letting him take over his social media accounts to add substance to his style.