Critics have hailed "In Search of a Midnight Kiss," directed by Alex Holdridge, as the best American indie film in years, comparing it to Woody Allen's early works such as "Manhattan," and "Annie Hall."
The film is black and white and gives the viewer the perspective of spying on someone's private life. It has an unscripted feel, which leads to extremely genuine dialogue and few awkward moments.
Meet Wilson (Scoot McNairy). Most areas of his life are completely disjointed, and he spends his days wallowing in self-deprecating squalor about a life that didn't work out. Single and not ready to mingle, the failed playwright takes his friend's advice and posts an ad - "misanthrope seeks misanthrope" - on CraigsList.com to avoid being alone in Los Angeles on New Year's Eve.
Not long after posting, he receives more than he bargained for by way of a phone call from a mysterious woman. When he is instructed to meet her at a cafe, he obliges and finds himself in the passenger seat of his best friend's car, reluctantly listening to a blunt lecture on condoms.
It is safe to say that nice-guy Wilson has never met anyone like self-medicating Vivian (Sara Simmonds) before, and he probably never will again. But one thing is certain: This date is anything but ordinary, and as they stroll through downtown Los Angeles, one cannot help but feel taken aback by Vivian. She is beautiful, yet rough and manic. At times it is almost too much to watch, and it is pretty unbelievable that he doesn't run back to the car after her haughty introduction.
With more time and lots of banter, it is possible to get used to her personality and perhaps even appreciate her rashness. As the film progresses, we see her character develop into more than just a crazy sunglasses-wearing man-hater (thank God!) and into her real role of being the damaged and abused wife of a crazy, abusive Texan "hick." Her character is a lot to take in; you should probably just see the film to understand for yourself.
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The film is beautiful, with thoughtful voiceovers and a gorgeous look at the otherwise harsh streets of Los Angeles. Through the black and white veil, we are able to see a more genuine look at the city and the characters. In many films, things just seem to work out, and situations flow seamlessly. With "Midnight Kiss," the viewers are privileged with a rare and honest account of human nature at its most raw.
If not only for its truth and brilliance, I felt moved by the film's candid ability to represent everyday people in an extraordinary way. Wilson's character is undoubtedly the real gem; no matter how loud Vivian's voice was in the film, it was Wilson that made it what it was. He is charming without being overwhelming.
As they explore the city, Wilson and Vivian learn about each other and foster an understanding connection, as well as a strong attraction. Wilson does not want her to leave, and neither does she, although she puts up a dramatic show of displeasure with him for a while. They really don't have much in common, but it worked because both characters were able to really appreciate odd little things. She wanted to be an actress, and he a playwright, and rightfully so, because in the end, she is acting how he would want her to.
The film's ending is tragic, but in an unconventionally true-to-life way. People make mistakes, and people get into tough situations. And yes, it is true that oftentimes these situations can and will not be resolved by the end of the allotted two hours of film. In fact, in this case, nothing is resolved, and it shouldn't be any other way.
This film is something both genders can relate to and enjoy. It is an artistic expression of a snapshot of a day; a piece of two people's 24 hours, in search for more than just a midnight kiss.
