The movie in question is “Good Time,” a 2017 crime thriller directed by Sean Baker and starring Robert Pattinson. The film follows a chaotic chase through the boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan as a bank robber named Connie Nikas (Pattinson) tries to evade the police and rescue his brother who has been arrested. The movie is known for its frenetic pace, intense performances, and gritty portrayal of New York City.
One of the key elements that sets “Good Time” apart is its use of real locations in Brooklyn and Manhattan to create a sense of authenticity and immediacy. To achieve this, director Sean Baker and his location manager spent considerable time retracing their steps and carefully planning out each scene to make sure they captured the energy and atmosphere of the city.
The decision to shoot on location in New York City was a deliberate one, as Baker wanted to immerse the audience in the world of the characters and make them feel like they were right there with them on the chaotic journey. By using real locations, Baker was able to capture the grit and excitement of the city in a way that wouldn’t have been possible on a soundstage or backlot.
In addition to the locations themselves, Baker and his team also paid close attention to the details of each scene, from the costumes and props to the lighting and sound design. Every element was carefully crafted to enhance the sense of reality and make the audience feel like they were part of the action.
One of the challenges of shooting on location in a city like New York is the unpredictable nature of the environment. Baker and his team had to be flexible and adaptable, as they often had to deal with unexpected obstacles and changes in the weather. However, Baker saw these challenges as opportunities to capture the raw energy and spontaneity of the city, and he embraced them as part of the filmmaking process.
The result is a film that feels alive and vibrant, with a sense of urgency and immediacy that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The chaotic chase through Brooklyn and Manhattan is a pulse-pounding thrill ride that draws viewers in and never lets go, thanks in large part to the authentic and immersive locations that serve as the backdrop for the action.
In addition to the locations themselves, the performances in “Good Time” also play a crucial role in creating the film’s sense of realism and intensity. Robert Pattinson delivers a riveting performance as Connie Nikas, a desperate and flawed character whose actions drive the plot forward. Pattinson’s portrayal of Connie is raw and unflinching, capturing the character’s desperation and determination in a way that feels genuine and compelling.
The supporting cast also delivers strong performances, including Jennifer Jason Leigh as Connie’s girlfriend and Benny Safdie as his mentally disabled brother. The interactions between the characters feel authentic and organic, thanks to the chemistry between the actors and the naturalistic dialogue that Baker and his team have crafted.
Overall, “Good Time” is a gripping and immersive film that takes viewers on a wild ride through the streets of New York City. By using real locations and paying close attention to detail, director Sean Baker has created a film that feels alive and immediate, drawing viewers into the world of the characters and keeping them on the edge of their seats until the very end. It is a testament to the power of location in filmmaking and the importance of authenticity in storytelling.