By: Danielle Amos

Danielle Amos — Mon, 23 May 2016 05:37:39 +0000

This review seems to miss the point of such a beautiful film. The illness is obviously metaphorical, the baton passing between the brothers is well orchestrated, the time frame of the main body of the film is spelt out: '12 months later' for example is placed on screen and we are soon told the older brother is released (I'm led to believe that prison sentences are served at 50% if an inmate is well behaved). It is even mentioned during the first story day that Tim must visit the Doctor on Thursday, in 2 days. Finally not understanding the time shift at the end feels like an obtuse missing of the point. The reviewer has a need for plot to be tied up neatly, an impossibility in life and therefore removing plausibility as the plots of real lives continue to tangle and unravel with equal measure. There is a beauty that transcends both Arnold and Ramsey shining a light on the characters of this world that the director obviously cares so deeply about treating them with such dignity. This reviewer seems only intent on misunderstanding the simple story and not wanting to admit that the world it examines is brutal and forces potential to doubt its self. This is a beautiful film that I watched in a full house at the premiere, the emotion in the room was palpable and I only hope that By-Pass reaches the audience that it deserves.

Comments on: Venice Review: Duane Hopkins’ ‘Bypass’ Starring George McKay Is Garish Style Over Grim Substance

By: Danielle Amos