Relationships. Those pesky things that make us crazy when we're in them, and drive us mad when we're not. It's no secret that relationships take work from both parties, but what happens when the scales of effort are weighted more towards ourselves than our partners? How much "take" makes the "give" worthwhile? Seemingly, this is the question "Alison" brings to the stage, as it showcases a "night to remember" starring none other than our leading lady Alison herself, with Jay in tow. Written by Jessica Rose and directed by David Lester, this title has a lot going for it... just maybe not quite what you have in mind. It's an interesting little tale. One many of us can relate to and even use down the road, as a funny story to tell our friends. I mean... C'mon guys! I can almost guarantee the opening segment, if it happened in real life, would be the funny story of choice for at least a decade. The "not quite what you have in mind" element comes in the form of this title not really having much of a story at all. "Alison" plays off much like the above mentioned joke, a fun little diversion but holding very little actual substance. I suppose the elements that make a story are technically present: A start, a middle and an end... but aside from those common threads, it's really more akin to "something that happened" last night. And that's it. We basically see a boyfriend nurse his intoxicated girlfriend for the better part of thirteen minutes. Although maybe something most of us can relate to, it's doesn't exactly live up to the promise posted on the description of the film. Sure. We get a sense there is more than just this "one night" but never actually get to see anything else. The ending segment plays off like a tease, letting us think there was so much more. "Alison" is more like an individual scene from a larger film, than that of a stand alone movie. With that said however, I'd like to point out that what we do get is an entertaining title. Maybe lacking in the extended plot department but entertaining none the less. I was like the happy fly on the wall watching events unfold. Witnessing a comedic, dramatic, comedic evening between a couple. There is some magic here, and one could argue that the lack of details leaves more for our imagination. Nothing wrong with that. Technically, "Alison" is another title that leaves very little to complain about. As far as indie film goes, this is a great example of what many low budget titles wish they could be. The pieces are all here. The audio and video looks and sounds good, and it's all pieced together with an eye for pacing and progression. Our two lead characters, played by Kristopher Turner and Jessica Rose, seemingly have no problems bringing Jay and Alison to life. These two people come across as anyone but two actors, trying like hell to be believable. They are believable. They have a chemistry that bounces back and forth between them and honestly... did a fantastic job. Excellent work. In the end, although not a flawless production, it's a dang nice piece of work. Entertaining, charming and even... heaven forbid... funny. It's a familiar tale many of us can relate with, which gives it the power to stand on it's own even though it's nothing more than a quick, funny story. I completely enjoyed my time here and do you want to know something cool? You can as well. This is another freebie to watch so what are you waiting for? "Alison" is a clear winner. Something for the cast and crew to be proud of.
