by Tabatha Golat –
I like movies; in fact, I love them. So, when I first saw the trailer for the Canadian-made dramatic comedy I Like Movies, I immediately searched for a local screening and was pleasantly surprised to find Star Cinema in Sidney was doing a run. After watching it, I can say with confidence that I like this movie.
Written and Directed by Chandler Levack, this early-2000s nostalgia piece tells the story of socially-inept 17-year-old filmmaker, Lawrence (played brilliantly by Isaiah Lehtinen), who gets a job at a video store to save money for NYU’s film program. After befriending his older female manager, Lawrence gains perspective of his future and works toward bettering himself. Ripe with early-2000s references, this film draws you in from the start.
Lehtinen’s performance as Lawrence is remarkable and deservedly won him the Vancouver Film Critics Award for Best Actor in a Canadian Film. The chemistry between him and co-star Sara García, who plays his older female manager, is charming and natural, making their scenes together the most memorable in the film.
One of the standout features of I Like Movies is the way Levack captures the essence of the early 2000s. From the costumes and set design to the task of picking out a film at your local video store, the film transports you back to a time before binge-watching on Netflix was an option. The attention to detail in recreating this era adds a subtle layer to the viewing experience. The film also tackles themes of self-discovery, friendship and the challenges of growing up. The characters are relatable, if not flawed, and their struggles feel authentic, making the emotional payoff of the story all the more satisfying.
Overall, I Like Movies is a heartfelt film that captures the spirit of the early 2000s while telling a story that is both funny and moving. With a talented cast and a skilled writer-director at the helm, it’s no surprise that the film has already garnered critical acclaim. Whether you’re a fan of coming-of-age stories, nostalgic period pieces, or just love movies in general, I highly recommend giving I Like Movies a watch. Released after a successful premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, I Like Movies was recently picked up for worldwide distribution by Visit Films and is screening in theatres across Canada.
If you are looking for other Canadian-made films to watch, check out my list of recommendations below.
1. One Week, Netflix
2. Stories We Tell, Netflix
3. The Sweet Hereafter, Amazon Prime
4. Rhymes for Young Ghouls, Amazon Prime
5. The Grand Seduction, Amazon Prime
