Shane Conto
How often are you surprised by the incredible abilities of filmmakers and how they can create magic with so little? Mark Duplass has for a long time been someone who takes small sets, minimal cameras, limited casts and creates great films and series out of them. Seeing him attached to a webcam-based film like Language Lessons got me excited. Natalie Morales is also a talented artist, and it certainly piqued my interests when I saw that she was taking the reins as the director. I am happy to say that this film exceeded my expectations and delivered quite the emotional experience.
How was Morales able to do this with such a simple set up? With everything being on webcams and cell phones, direction is quite limited with static cameras (for the most part). Working with the editor to know exactly when to cut the camera and how to order your narrative becomes even more important. Morales shows that she is quite competent with this process and brings a smooth pace to this film. The runtime is not long but it is all dialogue so making things exciting and moving can be a challenge. Language Lessons proves that great actors left to their own devices (quite literally) can really make magic happen.
It just so happens that the actors, writers, and director are the same two people…so how do they make their story come to life? The story centers on a Spanish teacher in Costa Rica being hired to teach a middle-aged gay man Spanish. When tragedy strikes this man, it leaves our teacher in an awkward place to be more than just a remote instructor. This unexpected connection is cultivated so organically throughout the film. Morales and Duplass use their writing and acting to build organic connections between our two characters. I could feel their chemistry through the webcams and their physical acting conveyed so much (while being boxed into these camera eyes). Duplass and Morales are fantastic and provide impressive performances.
How does this friendship play out through the film? Things start because of Duplass’ Adam’s tragedy and Morales’ Carino tries to be supportive and understanding. They have a nice connection and a fun playful banter at times. You can tell that Adam seeks comfort in their interactions as Carino struggles to keep up a professional relationship with her student. There are a few moments where Carino drops her guard down where some great chemistry shines (including a late-night drunken video call). There is also tension as the characters (and the film) challenge the other and how they are processing their situation leading to the tension and conflict of the film.
What makes this one such a special gem to check out on VOD? The chemistry between Duplass and Morales is so organic and their dialogue is (mostly) genuine with only some moments feeling a bit staged for dramatic effect. The screenplay plays out in such a pitch perfect pace and with so much care. Morales shows great promise as well in creating a moving and affecting experience. This is a must-see indie film featuring two talented artists at their best.
