When it comes to the art of filmmaking, not every director is bold enough to use an iPhone. But that's exactly what Sean Baker did with Tangerine—a daring, raw, and refreshing take on the comedy, crime, and drama genre. In this movie review, we'll dive into this riotous ride through Tinseltown that's sure to leave a mark on the cinematic landscape.
The plot centers on Sin-Dee Rella, a transgender sex worker, played with unfiltered sass by Kitana Kiki Rodriguez. She's been released from a short stint in prison only to discover her pimp and love interest has been unfaithful. With wild determination, she tears through the streets of Los Angeles on Christmas Eve, looking for answers. This is not just a tale of heartbreak and revenge—it's a riotous exploration of friendship, identity, and resilience. You’ll find yourself consumed by the film's frenetic pace while laughing out loud at its biting humor.
Strong performances are the heartbeat of Tangerine, with Mya Taylor as Alexandra bringing both grace and grit to her role as Sin-Dee's best friend. Together, Rodriguez and Taylor create palpable on-screen chemistry that's both hilarious and deeply moving. Sean Baker's direction paired with Chris Bergoch's screenplay ensures each scene vibrates with realism. The iPhone cinematography? Genius. It doesn't just capture chaos; it elevates it to an art form. You feel like you're walking alongside the duo, engulfed by the vibrancy of LA's underbelly.
If you're familiar with films like Dog Day Afternoon or The Florida Project—both iconic for their authentic and unfiltered storytelling—then Tangerine will resonate with you. It fits right into the mold of films that don't shy away from showing true human experiences, unlike most glitzy Hollywood productions.
For those of you itching to scratch that slice-of-life drama itch, Tangerine is a must-watch film. It doesn't just push the envelope; it obliterates it, redefining what independent cinema should be—raw, real, and unapologetically honest. So grab some popcorn, and if you're into gritty flicks that aren't afraid to show the messy spans of life, this cinematic masterpiece is definitely for you!