The art of sexuality has alway been a interesting topic, especially at film festivals. Sundance 2011 is no different, and my journey with it starts with Gregg Araki's Kaboom.
Let me first say that while this film deals heavily with sexual orientation, using the art of sex to introduce and eventually close out the film, this story is not all about what happens between the sheets. Instead, writer/director Gregg Araki uses the sexual awakening of our characters to focus in on a more important story; one that could see us to the end of the world as we know it.
What I love about Kaboom is that no character is underused or wasted. Everyone the audience meets serves a purpose. Whether it be a random sex partner, an unsuspecting run in or an animal masked villain, all are there for a reason.
Our protagonist, Smith, is up in the air about his sexuality. At first glance that is what I suspected the entire film to be about. But by the conclusion of this sci-fi drama, I came to notice that it was merely a characteristic trait of Smith, not something that defined either him or the film.
Juno Temple is easily the best in show here as the hot-chick, London, whom Smith hooks up with at a party. Her involvement increases with each scene, and makes you question just who the people are in your life.
I won't say that I always knew what was happening in this film. In fact, I found myself lost on more than one occasion. But for some reason that is okay here. Kaboom rarely takes itself seriously; instead focusing on the enjoyment of its audience as it works its way in and out of every corner imaginable.
I won't go as far as to say that Kaboom is a must see because it isn't. However, with that said, I will admit that I enjoyed it wholeheartedly. It's unique flavor of college innocence allows the audience to become lost in the moment, living through the characters as they discover who they are and exactly what their purpose is on this planet. If drugs and sex are needed to reach that understanding, then so be it!
