WHAT COMES AROUND
Starring: Grace Van Dien, Summer Phoenix, Kyle Gallner, Jesse Garcia, and Reina Hardesty
Director: Amy Redford
QUENTIN
What Comes Around’s marketing does the film a disservice by calling it “an immersive thriller.” There is certainly a mystery at play, with things not always being what they seem, but there are few “thrills.” That said, the movie is excellent. Kyle Gallner, in another great indie movie people likely won’t see (Dinner in America, anyone?), is especially good as a 28-year-old man, potentially with ulterior motives, wooing a 17-year-old girl. It’s a slow, minimalist burn, but it culminates in one of the most layered endings I’ve seen in a while. I honestly haven’t stopped thinking about it since I saw it at TIFF 2022.
NICK
Promoted as a thriller, What Comes Around is actually more of a layered drama about family and relationships. This small-scale story is filled with genuine performances, particularly from Grace Van Dien as the naïve teenager and Kyle Gallner as her older love interest. The story eventually takes an unexpected turn that changes the trajectory of the film, and without spoiling things, I’ll say that turn is what truly elevates this to something special. What Comes Around is a pleasant yet simplistic surprise that is carried by its authentic dialogue and cast; it's just low in thrills, so temper your expectations.
PAIGE
What Comes Around is more than what the trailers and plot synopsis present it to be, which means I was quite surprised by this film. It’s filled with twists and turns that I did not see coming. Once the second half hits, this psychological drama will have you on the edge of your seat. That said, for it to be considered a thriller, it needed A LOT more tension. Still though, the performances are great and will keep you engaged throughout, especially by Kyle Gallner, who always seems to deliver the goods.
This film was reviewed by Nick and Quentin as part of Bitesize Breakdown's coverage of the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival.