On the Count of Three 2022 Movie Review

Title: On the Count of Three – A Poignant and Darkly Humorous Exploration of Friendship and Redemption

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

“On the Count of Three” is an emotionally charged, thought-provoking film that delves into the complexities of friendship, mental health, and finding purpose in life. Directed by debut filmmaker Jerrod Carmichael, this dark comedy-drama offers a fresh take on familiar themes.

The movie revolves around two best friends, Val and Kevin, played brilliantly by Jerrod Carmichael himself and Christopher Abbott. Both characters have reached their breaking points in life and have made a pact to end it all together. But as they embark on one last day filled with confrontations, self-reflection, and even moments of unexpected joy, their bond is tested like never before.

One of the film’s strongest points lies in its exceptional screenplay. The dialogue between Val and Kevin is raw yet genuine. It effortlessly switches between moments of intense vulnerability to witty banter that perfectly captures the intricacies of true friendship. The dialogues feel authentic throughout, leaving viewers with a mixture of laughter and unsettling reflection.

The performances delivered by Carmichael and Abbott are nothing short of remarkable. Both actors seamlessly delve into their characters’ inner turmoil while maintaining a captivating dynamic that keeps us hooked from start to finish. Their chemistry feels palpable as they navigate through their shared history while unearthing secrets buried deep within themselves.

Carmichael’s direction deserves applause as he steers clear from predictable narrative tropes typically associated with films tackling mental health issues. Instead, he takes risks by injecting unpredictable humor at just the right moments without undermining the gravity of his subject matter.

The cinematography adds depth to “On the Count of Three,” capturing both gritty urban landscapes juxtaposed against intimate close-ups during crucial emotional beats. The dark color palette enhances the somber undertones while emphasizing each character’s isolation and struggle.

The film’s score complements the narrative beautifully, enhancing emotional resonance. The melancholic melodies evoke a sense of empathy for the characters on their poignant journey towards redemption. Additionally, the thoughtful use of cleverly selected songs throughout adds another layer to the characters’ development, leaving a lasting impression.

While “On the Count of Three” excels in many aspects, there are moments where its pacing could have been tightened to maintain an optimal level of engagement. Certain scenes tend to linger, potentially dulling the impact and slowing down an otherwise riveting story.

Overall, “On the Count of Three” is an audacious debut from Jerrod Carmichael that fearlessly tackles sensitive topics while infusing them with dark humor and genuine heart. It effectively explores themes such as friendship, mental health struggles, and personal growth with honesty and authenticity. By delving deep into complicated emotions while maintaining a delicate balance between lightness and darkness, this film resonates long after the credits roll.

Prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster—one that challenges your perspective on life’s purpose while delivering moments of unexpected laughter amidst despair. With memorable performances combined with skilled direction and a compelling narrative at its core, “On The Count Of Three” is undoubtedly worth experiencing for any cinephile seeking intelligent storytelling and reflective cinema.

On The Count of Three | Official Trailer | Hulu official trailer