There is absolutely a lot to love about “Older,” a low-budget drama film by New Zealander Guy Pigden. It is brimming with lofty ideas, brimming with nostalgic one-liners, and full of relatable moments. While anyone can appreciate this remarkable film, it particularly resonates with audiences over the age of 30. However, even younger viewers will find themselves tapping into its narrative of aging, especially if they are standing on the precipice of that stage in life. “Older” is a movie that leaves a lasting impact on anyone who watches it.
The story follows Alex played by Pidgen himself. He’s failed with his lifelong goal of filmmaking, moves back in with his parents, and settled back into the routine he had before embarking on the big wide world. He smokes weed, stocks up on tissues, and simply wallows in the depths. What Mother of Movies liked about the film was its reliability.
Alex is by all definitions, the guy who plays the field. A person who doesn’t know what to do next when the goal you reached is left in tatters. His slasher film was panned by critics. So what do you do when you don’t know what to do next? You stick with what you know. Alex shimmies into his on-again-off-again girl, not wanting to keep her but not wanting to let her go. He sees no value in settling down and having a family of his own. His relationships are kept at arm’s length but also probably purposely so.
Is it Time For A New Dream?
When Alex reunites with his old high school friend Jenny, he not only keeps her but also his old flame, dangling on the hook. With everything in limbo, Alex contemplates his true self and the person he aspires to be. This relatable struggle resonates with many, as we have all experienced the challenge of letting go of the things we believe are essential for our existence.
Performances were a bit of a sticking point for me in the Older movie. Generally speaking for most of the film I warmed to many of the cast. But in this case, perhaps my annoyance with Alex’s character stemmed from some personal life experiences that caused me to think he was more underwhelming than he was. As an independently funded production, Older was better than many. In this case, sometimes hitting too close to home can make you hate something that doesn’t deserve it.
“What do you do when your dream comes true, and nothing happens?”
Quote from the film, Older starring Guy Pigden
Older is available now on Amazon, Google Play, and Tubi
Older is rated
3 new dreams are hard to come by on the market out of 5
- Released by Indie Rights Movies on November 6th, 2020.
- Starring: Guy Pigden, Leisha Ward Knox, Astra McLaren, Harley Neville, Samantha Jukes.
- Mother of Movies acquired ‘Older’ as a screener for review purposes.
- More films about mid-life crises: Morgana / The Pleasure of Your Attendance / Chick Fight / Bad Cupid