‘Suze’ Review – A Reminder Of The Highs And Lows Of Being Human [SBIFF 2024]

Suze is perhaps one of the most refreshing portrayals of the human experience in recent memory. While the comedic premise of the unlikely duo is not a new idea, the brilliant writing team behind the film takes this idea and injects a touch of humanity to another layer of depth into its messaging. Centered around two complex protagonists struggling with their unhappiness in life, the film serves as a reminder to its audience of the human ability to find connection in the most unlikely of places. 

The plot of the film follows a single mother, Suze, as she struggles to adjust to her only child moving away for college. In dealing with this absence, a series of circumstances forces her to spend time with her daughter’s ex-boyfriend, Gage, as the pair struggle with this change in their lives. In this mutual sadness, the pair begin an unlikely friendship that changes both of them for the better.

Suze brings something new to the premise of an unlikely friendship, capturing the human experience by residing in a tonal sweet spot between joy and sadness. Screenwriters Linsey Stewart and Dane Clark construct a charming story through the unlikely balance of emotion and comedy. To put it simply, Suze reminds audiences there is always a reason to laugh, even if sometimes they want to cry.

The brilliance of the film lies in its clever script that blends the highs and lows of everyday life to serve its strong comedic writing and central message. The grounded and sometimes bleak tone of the film lays the foundation for its humor to shine. Instead of relying on elaborate comedic setups or crazy antics, the writers simply lean on the wittiness of the dialogue to entertain and charm their audience. This natural ebb and flow between happiness and sadness in the characters’ lives makes the film relatable, resembling a cycle that audiences may experience in their own daily lives. 

The film’s effectiveness is also elevated through strong performances from its talented leads: Michaela Watkins and Charlie Gillespie. The two leads not only shine individually but also complement one another exceptionally well. In addition to sharing strong chemistry, Watkins and Gillespie are able to truly embrace their characters’ contrasting perspectives on life, delivering performances that audiences not only grow to care about but also see parts of themselves in. 

Michaela Watkins’ performance as the titular character of Suze is rooted in a sense of honesty and sincerity. Her character has sacrificed her happiness so that her daughter can be happy, an idea that shines through Watkins’ brilliant performance. Suze begins the film as depressive, almost broken, but slowly opens up to the audience, Watkins taps into this range of emotion, showing the best parts of Suze and what she has to offer. It is compelling to see Suze’s journey of self-discovery and finding a new sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Meanwhile, Charlie Gillespie’s character, Gage, provides the perfect contrast to the more subdued Suze. Gage’s free spirit thrives in positivity and optimism. However, as the plot progresses, the audience begins to understand who the character truly is beneath his charming persona. Gillespie embodies this character exceptionally well in a role that plays to the actor’s strengths as a comedic actor. That being said, Gillespie absolutely delivers when it comes to the more emotional scenes with the character. In one scene, he is a charming and hilarious jokester, in the next, he showcases vulnerability in a way that pulls on the audience’s heartstrings. Like Suze, the audience grows to care more about the character as the film progresses.

The film also benefits from strong direction and creative choices. In addition to a thoughtful script, the filmmakers deliberately construct a world that perfectly complements its comedic tone. Using quick cuts and fun transitions, it remains light-hearted and fun despite the inclusion of more mature topics. In contrast to this snappy editing and comedic nature, the film’s muted color palette suggests a more somber nature that matches its premise. While these elements may have clashed under different direction, directors Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart utilize these technical elements well, constructing a contrast that remains in line with the film’s hopeful message.

Suze delivers a balanced portrayal of the joys and heartbreak of the human experience. Despite the elements of cynicism and doubt in its characters, the film’s central message serves as a reminder of what it feels like to be human and find joy in connecting with others. It is a stunning glimpse into our reality, giving audiences the chance to experience some of the lowest points of being human as well as the most meaningful moments.

Suze had its U.S. premiere at the 2024 Santa Barbara International Film Festival.

Directors: Linsey Stewart, Dane Clark

Writers: Linsey Stewart, Dane Clark

Rated: NR

Runtime: 93m