Beau Ideal

A dramatic psychological thriller feature film written by Patrick D. Green, directed by Green and Edd Blott and starring Green, Michele Tredger, Eric Martin Reid and Kelly Godell.

Jake (Green) and Rebecca (Tredger) are a couple in the United States who move to a small countryside town, in search of a better lifestyle. There, they soon meet their new neighbours, including well-meaning Marjorie (Betty Moyer) and Dave (Reid) and his partner, Michelle (Godell). It is not long before Jake notices that something seems to be wrong as he keeps seeing Cole (Rylan Andrews), Dave and Michelle's son, with cuts and bruises on his face.

The suspense and mystery work well in making the viewing engaging, with Jake being concerned regarding Cole's safety and trying to find out what is going on with the family living next door. The story is told through Jake's perspective and the screenplay examines how his attempts to resolve the situation is affecting his mental state and his relationship with Rebecca. There is a subplot that concentrates on family drama and it involves Jake's personal life, particularly his relationship with his sister, Lori (Lindsae Klein), his ill mother (Maggie McOmie) and his father (Blaine Palmer), the latter being the one with whom he is not on good terms.

The plot is interesting, however, during the last thirty minutes or so, the film loses momentum. Even though the pace is slow from the beginning, during the final half hour it takes too long to get to the conclusion, making the viewing feel overlong, especially since the story's most dramatic event has already taken place.

The author of this review would like to focus on title. Just explaining that ''Beau Ideal'' generally refers to something that is perfect. Although, after watching this film, one could comprehend why this title was chosen, however, taking under consideration that the plot involves a man attempting to save a boy he believes is in danger, Beau Ideal does not really prepare the viewer for what they are about to experience. Perhaps another title would had been more intriguing, maybe ''The House Next Door'' or ''The People Next Door''?

Several years ago, the writer of this review had the privilege of analysing Green's acting in Escaping Freedom and it is great to see him deliver another strong performance, this time portraying a software developer and aspiring writer who finds himself being torn apart by his efforts to protect Cole and family issues. Reid's character seems to be the antagonist, a guy who drinks a lot, a family man who might have a dark side, that being a violent parent, while Michelle (super to see her doing another fantastic job too after her work in Escaping Freedom) appears to be a vulnerable woman who is evidently also a victim to her partner's apparent aggressive behaviour. Even though Andrews makes brief appearances throughout the film, he is quite dramatic as a quiet troubled child who is homeschooled and his character is crucial to the story.

This feature has a plot that relies heavily on domestic violence, particularly violence against children. In addition to these dark themes, suspicions, loss, family values, guilt, self-reflection and the significance of reaching out to help are also explored.

A decent viewing with mystery, heavy drama, pensive and emotive music by Alejandro Villanueva Medina and great acting that unfortunately loses its grip during the final half hour.