I would’ve driven away without them but that’s just me

I’ve seen a couple people mislabel “Good One” as a coming of age drama, but Sam (Lily Collias) the fearsome daughter of Chris (James Le Gros), who goes on a hiking trip with his best friend Matt (Danny McCarthy) is already very mature. In fact, the pleasure of the film is seeing her awareness of her dad and Matt’s flaws. India Donaldson possesses an unhurried lens, as the trio walk over hill and dale, dismantling the fallacy that you can’t be a misogynist if you have a daughter. Seeing Collias in “Good One” offers the same revelations as seeing Thomasin McKenzie in “Leave No Trace.” This is a patient, very internal performance that feels way beyond the years of the performer. It’s Collias‘ undeterred face that lingers long after the film ends.

less a "coming of age" film than a "coming to terms" film, feeling similarly inspired by Old Joy (its rather obvious point of comparison) as well as cinematic tales of agency like Je, Tu, Il, Elle or even the recent Never Rarely Sometimes Always, showcasing characters (and, more specifically, young female leads) existing in shared spaces in the wake of, or leading up to, major changes; exquisitely serene in a way that few films are (until it's not)

I was laughing and pondering and having a merry ole fucking time, like “oh, look at that slug!” I was thinking “oh, I should hike more!” Wow, this is some Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance shit, love it, then WHAM. PEOPLE SUCK. WE’RE COMPLICIT. Every bit of dialogue so far gets recontextualized, reveals its true, rotten nature. 

Such an impressive use of static shots and the space between words.

the feeling of a mosquito landing on you, noticing it, and trying to sweep it away before it bites; to be in tune with it all, to know when danger is approaching, and to keep feeling it on your skin even after you’ve brushed it off. 

the fool is a sign of good luck & new beginnings, because he might not notice at all. to notice is to see where the pain lies. 

there’s a fresh bite on my arm from when i noticed too late, and it’s taking everything in me not to scratch it. it sits there as a reminder that sometimes there is no warning, just the prick.

James LeGross

Exquisite. I love small movies that weigh a ton.

Perfect movie for what it is. Sets you up with very little expectations except to enjoy this weekend hike and slowly learn the characters, and stealthily becomes something more. 

The screenplay is excellent (and quite funny), with a real knack for the flow of ordinary conversation.

This one will stick with me for a long time

The enjoyment and disappointment of one's father quietly breaking the silence