Fresh

Produced by Adam McKay (SNL), Fresh stars Sebastian Stan (Captain American) and British actress Daisy Edgar-Jones. The movie opens with the feel of a romantic comedy, replete with ironic humor as Noa (Edgar-Jones) unsuccessfully navigates the online dating world. Until a meet-cute in the grocery store with a handsome and witty stranger Steve (Stan). 

After a couple dates, they tumble into bed, and this is where the movie takes a tonal turn . The scoring during their love-making scene seemed overly intense, almost frightening, suggesting some impending danger. Along with some uncomfortably close shots— Noa’s neck in the shower, Steve eating dinner, extreme CU showing only parts of their faces—the cinematographer and director pulled us into a sense of discomfort. This discomfort is juxtaposed with the Noa’s joy over the burgeoning relationship with Steve, with whom she seems perfectly matched. In fact, everything about Steve is perfect—he’s a handsome doctor, spontaneous and even invites her to a weekend getaway to a surprise destination.  Despite warnings from her bestie Mollie (Jojo T. Gibbs), she decides to go.

If possible, I recommend you watch this movie before you read any full summaries of it, because it is best served Fresh. Fresh eyes, so you can experience the unfolding of the movie, as skillfully designed by first-time director Mimi Cave. Cave brings her unique lens to a layered topic. She uses very interesting shots that stir emotions and has a unique filming style altogether. The performances were grounded and, believable. Nearly every character brought moments of humor as well. While best suited to a mature audience, Fresh does hold a very important  message for young adults and late teens about the dangers of dating--and navigating complex relationships. Really solid job by the whole team on this film.

Fresh
Directed by Mimi Cave
Written by Lauryn Kahn
Produced by Adam McKay, Kevin J. Messick, Maeve Cullinane
Starring  Daisy Edgar-Jones, Sebastian Stan and Jojo T. Gibbs
Cinematography : Pawel Pogorzelski
Edited by Martin Pensa
Music by Alex Somers
Production companies : Legendary Pictures, Hyperobject Industries
Distributed by Fox Searchlight Pictures
Premiered January 20, 2022 (Sundance), 
Release on Hulu: March 4, 2022 (United States)
Running time : 1 hour 54 minutes

Seen on March 1 at Fox Lot’s Blakeley Theater (Los Angeles)

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