Self Reliance 2023

Surviving is all about the company you keep.

6.038 / 10   91 vote(s)
R
Comedy Thriller

When a man is offered a million dollars to play a game in which hunters try to kill him, he thinks he has found the perfect loophole: they can only attack when he’s alone. His only problem is that none of his friends or family believe the game is real.

Release Date 2023-03-11
Runtime 1h 31m
Directors Jake Johnson, Adam Silver
Producers Andy Samberg, Jorma Taccone, Akiva Schaffer, Jake Johnson, Ali Bell, Joe Hardesty, Bre Andrade, Anna Ramey Borden
Writer Jake Johnson

FULL SPOILER-FREE REVIEW @ https://www.firstshowing.net/2024/review-jake-johnsons-new-comedy-self-reliance-plays-it-too-safe/

"Self Reliance possesses an intriguing premise but ultimately plays it too safe. More audacity and bite were required to truly leave a mark on Jake Johnson's feature directorial debut.

Good work as an actor - Anna Kendrick steals the show, though - decent showcase of his strengths as a writer - despite failing to fully capitalize on the narrative's potential - but the lack of a firm grip on the thriller elements and some tonal inconsistencies prevent the film from reaching the next level.

Some humorous moments and a sweet message surrounding the importance of human connections make it a worthwhile watch for those seeking a lighthearted comedy-thriller."

Rating: C+

Manuel São Bento