Fast Forward Style: A Review

Fast Forward Style is a short romantic comedy that will resonate for many, especially during a time when the dating approach seems to have totally shifted to that of the online world. Director Kari Kennon and writer Brenda E. Kennon bring to life the story of Caroline, a middle-aged widower looking to finally branch out and meet the next best thing in terms of a partner. She is encouraged by her best friend to join an elite private dating site called: “Fast Forward Style”.

As the name suggests, we are thrown into the world of online dating, fast forward style. This quirky comedy takes us through the many humorous attempts Caroline goes through before she finally succeeds in finding a promising partner. Playful transitions to the tune of old VCR flash forward visuals take us from one date to the next. Stable camera work and clean colour schemes add to the atmosphere of the romantic comedy genre, with a pleasant soundtrack to help set a hopeful tone throughout. Tanya McMaster as Caroline does a wonderful job in portraying an authentic character, independent and looking to share her life with a fitting partner. The film benefits from great cinematography and set design, with every date taking us to a different location that gives the film great visual diversity.

For those familiar with the world of online dating, this film can be relatable. It takes Caroline several attempts to get to Mr. Right. She has to pass through the hurdles of dating a broke holistic photographer, a missionary widower, a “man’s man” rancher looking for a domestic housewife, a trust-fund man-baby looking to fill the void of his deceased mother, and a secret agent who knows everything about Caroline. McMaster’s portrayal of Caroline’s easy-going character and subtle demeanour add to the contrast in these situations, as the tension helps the comedy build-up. One of the bright-spots of McMaster’s acting is her ability to play the part of the listener. Caroline listens intently and absorbs in all the details, making us as viewers do the same. This goes a long way to highlight the comedic defects of the characters sitting across from her. This is perhaps why Tanya McMaster was awarded Best Actress in the Montreal Independent Film Festival.

The film begins on the website’s main page, reading “Find Love: Begin your journey with a partner that is everything you’re not and everything you need”. This may be interpreted as problematic for it sets a tone representing our modern philosophy of relationships through an individualist scope. Online dating can at times be a catalyst where we often seek to fill our own emotional and spiritual voids in finding a partner, hoping it can be them to release us from our shortcomings. In this sense, the film does a decent job job of taking us through the journey of online dating and the dynamics that play into overcoming our need for a partner versus being patient for the right one to share a path with. This is portrayed in many of the characters Caroline meets before she gets to Mr. Right. She has to cover the bill for the mindful but broke photographer. She’s expected to fill the role of the housewife for the rancher. She’s in danger of being controlled emotionally and mentally by a secret agent. The notion of having a friend there to save you from the crazy world of dating, and a feeling of hopelessness is a staple in the film. Friends are an important part of progress and support in our daily lives. Karen Pendelton’s portrayal of Katherine, the loving and caring best friend is a wonderful addition to the film. Her steady presence in Caroline’s endeavours help our hero navigate the online dating turf safely until she meets the one.

Fast Forward Style has recently begun touring various festivals and this reviewer is confident that it will bring home some neat prizes by the end of year. In its short endured circulation so far, the film was selected at the top 20 list at the Louisiana Film Prize, with its premiere in Silicon Valley International Film Festival in California. Kari Kennon has a bright future ahead, being ahead of the curb when it comes to themes relating to digital media and everyday lives of everyday people.