The Last Christmas Party

I really enjoyed this film - a first time feature-length film from the director. Excellent casting (Charlie, Caroline, and Jun in particular), soundtrack, and filming. It pulled me in and connected me with the characters from the start, and the non-linear film approach to the scenes gave the characters and storyline depth and interest. Well done!

I loved it great work from the cast and crew nad everyone one who participated in the making

When they sent someone out to buy more alcohol before the party even started it's a metaphor for how unprepared everyone involved in this film was. I think I counted about 15 people so it's not really a party, more a get together. Cliches of actors huffing & puffing to show 'emotion'. Someone vomits on a woman's top (spoiler) & no one offers her another, even though she's at her boyfriend's apartment so she leaves? It's so obvious that this film has male writers considering how one dimensional & problematic the female characters are & the only ones who's problems are 'real' are the guys. The budget didn't stretch for stedicams so emotional scenes leave you with motion sickness. Charlie should just put the paper towels down & come out... he's fooling no one. Caroline was the only character played by an actor who was convincing . The cameraman is obsessed with that brick wall. Worst pep talk ever. The do better scene is just ludicrous. I think the only person who had fun in this film was Manny.

"The Last Christmas Party" is a thoroughly engaging and surprisingly emotional portrayal of imminently graduating university students negotiating the complexities of the impending changes in their lives. The film addresses this primarily through the relationships of three couples. The interweaving collage of youth flirting with commitment is brilliantly acted. Their issues are explored in such a believable manner that I found myself increasingly emotionally involved in the various plots. The direction, editing and pacing of the film ensures that a measure of frivolity does not detract from the existential dilemmas of characters floundering on the edge of responsibility to others and themselves. The issues are brilliantly enhanced by some subtle understatement. For example, Jun's forthrightness is refined by shades of emotions that suggest a warm persona whilst Ed's nuanced performance is punctuated with laughter on two occasions that hints at perspectives that are not openly articulated. The mood and texture of the film is augmented by brilliant use of original music.

I loved this film. On the surface, it explores the relationships of 3 couples nearing the end of their college years in New York. The intelligent script and fantastic acting however add more layers to the issues. With that comes ambiguity, humour and emotional engagement. This is proof that small budget films can charm and entertain.