Get ready for a troubled-girl-on-a-journey story that will take you back to the late ’90s. “Parachute” is reminiscent of iconic books like “Prozac Nation” and “Girl, Interrupted,” but with a fresh twist for a new generation. Brittany Snow’s directorial debut breathes new life into this genre, thanks to the incredible performance of Courtney Eaton, who won a well-deserved SXSW Special Jury Recognition for her role.
From the very beginning, the film grabs your attention. We meet Riley (played by Eaton) sitting on a curb, scrolling through pages of self-obsessed Instagram influencers. It’s no surprise when we learn that she’s been struggling with a serious disorder related to her body image. Despite this, her best friend convinces her to go out for a party night. And that’s where she meets Ethan (played by Thomas Mann), a scruffy yet charming music A&R man. Riley is a fan of his former hipster band, Neon Porches, and their connection is instant.
Can Riley overcome her past, conquer her body-image anxiety, and pursue a relationship with Ethan, who has his own demons to face? Despite being on a program that forbids dating for a year, Riley throws caution to the wind and embarks on a friends-with-benefits arrangement with Ethan.
Things start to look up for Riley when she lands a job with a murder-mystery dinner theatre company run by Bryce (played by Dave Bautista). But instead of finding stability, her life becomes even more complicated. She starts dating a bartender from work, Ethan struggles with his ex and alcoholic father, and Riley’s absent mother suddenly reappears. Chaos ensues, but amidst the drama, Riley experiences a wake-up call that changes everything.
Surprisingly, the film delicately handles Riley’s body-image issues, providing introspective moments where she reflects on her past and therapy sessions. However, there is a lot of unnecessary commotion surrounding these moments, making it difficult to fully connect with “Parachute.”
“Parachute” is a thought-provoking film that tackles important themes, but it could benefit from a more focused approach. Nevertheless, it’s a captivating journey that will leave you reflecting on the harsh realities of life.
Title: Parachute
Festival: SXSW, Narrative Feature Competition
Director: Brittany Snow
Screenwriter: Brittany Snow, Becca Gleason
Cast: Courtney Eaton, Thomas Mann, Francesca Reale
Running time: 1hr 37 min
