I Live Here Now // A Disappointing Directorial Debut

I Live Here Now knows exactly the type of movie it wants to be and it’s successful in its execution. I applaud the success. Unfortunately, that’s where the praise ends. This new (not new) trend of striving for “elevated horror” has unfortunately inspired some to tackle the genre. A genre that should be left alone to die a quiet death. Or at the very least be ignored in its relative pomposity rather than aspired to. Directed by Julie Pacino, I Live Here Now should be a directorial debut to cheer on. Instead we’re left confused and frustrated with the end result.

I Live Here Now follows Rose (Lucy Fry) as she struggles through the trials of an actress in Hollywood, with a vapid boyfriend tossed in for good measure. She’s forced to deal with the body shaming pressures all while reliving a tortured, unfortunate childhood experience. As Rose escapes the oppressiveness of it all to only wreck herself further, the confusion of the movie sets in. Fry’s performance as Rose is an oasis in the film. It seeks to only mock and tease us into hanging on longer than is deserved.

There’s a story here somewhere

Rose is an actress and she wants the part. We don’t know why but we’re forced to accept everything that happens after her audition. She flees the city for an isolated inn and continues with the head-scratching choices. To say an actor needs to be inspired in their role isn’t the only truth. A viewer also needs to feel inspired to care about the movie. Fry’s performance as Rose alone isn’t enough.

This is where Pacino decides that performance alone will carry the film. She brings on Sid (Sarah Rich) and Lillian (Madeline Brewer) to suck us in. Sid, the poor put-upon bellhop, and Lillian, the wicked neighbor at the inn, draw us in once again hoping for some type of direction. Instead we’re met with another mirage.

It’s all looks and no substance

The purple and pink hues which are meant to enhance the mood and set the tone, are not enough to paint a good story. I don’t doubt that Pacino has talent. She’s been gifted with a circumstance and surrounded by the best in filmmaking. She’s also a talented photographer. This is something we see as I Live Here Now is beautiful to look at. When you pair this with solid performances you expect a great film.

One of the best parts of the film sadly doesn’t even come from Pacino herself, but rather bookends the whole film. TOMI’s rendition of “Piccolo Piccolo” is absolutely beautiful and stunningly refreshing both introducing and concluding Rose’s journey. Her journey through disjointed storytelling and unclear inspiration set a tone of frustration. Why does she insist on doing anything she does? I sadly feel the movie is missing its mark. Or maybe it’s just me and this is one of the best films of the year.

To read more from Imagine Fantastic Film Festival, click here!