Entirely unaware of what I was walking into, Mark Pellington's I Melt With You was a riveting shock of a film that truly pushed my limits as a viewer. Perfect casting, a mindlessly stellar soundtrack and a courageous story have been brought forth to create a film that will stay with you long after the final twist is revealed.
it is a rarity really. A film services a more widespread purpose than entertainment. I Melt With You is a conversational piece that warrants your attention. Half of you will absolutely hate the picture. As for the other half, you will appreciate its honesty and unique qualities. Those in the middle - you will hardly exist at all.
Thomas Jane, Jeremy Piven, Rob Lowe and Christian McKay star as four college friends who reunite every year for a week of catching up. On the surface each man appears to be going through the regular actions of life. But as the week progresses and the drugs and alcohol reach the extreme each will be forced to confront a pact that was made some twenty five years before.
The film progresses well as we witness a story that can only be described as two haves rather than the standard three act format. Audiences are often left in the dark as to the pact that was made, though subtle clues are given to allow the slow creation of an adequate conclusion.
The film wears its indie badge with pride and honor. The camera work is brilliantly crafted as we are taken on a wild ride of sex, drugs and alcohol, entirely unaware of where we will be when it all unravels. I Melt With You is an intense thriller that messes with your psyche more than anything else. It is creative, imaginative and a great addition to the art. After you see it you are guaranteed to have an opinion of its story and each character's course of action as the story refuses to play it safe by denying us all the usual happily-ever-after finale. And believe me, the film benefits greatly as a result.
