Perhaps it is the fact that I have seen too many "commercial" movies released in conjunction with a line of action figures, fast food merchandise, and pop music laden soundtracks that I was so drawn into Niagra Niagra. Furthermore, it could be the aforementioned that leaves me wishing that I could see Niagra Niagra again. While other films leave you in awe of Dolby/THX theatrical sound, or CGI special effects, Niagra Niagra leaves you with something the commercial releases have lacked for years...a thought. How rare is it that we can see a well acted, directed, and written film that leaves us asking questions about ourselves and not heading out to a fast food chain for the toys of the week?
Niagra Niagra follows two castaways from society that take to the road together in hopes of finding their way to Niagra Falls, Ontario. Along the way we are treated to snippets, excerpts as it were of our own behaviour, or rather lack thereof. As a young woman tormented by Tourettes syndrome finds no sympathy save that of her fellow castaway. Together they find more than a road to take them to Canada, and find a way to tell us how understanding and empathy appear to be on the endangered species list. Winding along ribbons of asphalt together, we find a lot of ourselves and others in these castaways and ultimately a great reflection of that endangerment of human understanding driven home through a pair of incredible performances that are not to be missed.
Niagra Niagra is an incredible film which is a MUST see, and don't worry about being "sold" the latest line of merchandise. All you need to do is enjoy the film as it is, the enjoyment and message will come naturally.
