A Beautiful Now rests on the strength of the chemistry and interplay between its cast and in particular, the bond with the two leads, Cheyenne Jackson and Abigail Spencer.

In particular Spencer is the welcome recipient of a film that focuses on the liminal, the spaces between, a dreamlike setting, and a heavy focus on dancing, particularly Fosse-esque performance pieces.

While the story feels like it treads some familiar terrain, the method in which it is presented feels ethereal and sparkling, (and contains some clues that may be very pertinent towards discovering the twist at the end of the film). Spencer plays a jaded dancer that has locked herself in the bathroom, and her friends, including Jackson, come to rescue her, but she still does not want to emerge. This style of confrontation leads to a deeper sense of a reveal as to the conflicts and helps to explain why Spencer’s character (Romy) has locked herself in the bathroom in the first place, alongside a bottle of wine and another crucial object.

Spencer shines in a lead role, and Jackson proves that he’s an MVP in indies, (and beyond). There is a deep felt sense of chemistry between the two, making the reveal seem that much more plausible.

Director and writer Daniela Amavia peppers the film with the idea that there is unreliable information being offered, which, coupled with some dance sequences make for a colourful viewing experience, (and a sonic one as well, as the film has a beautiful soundtrack). While it may not reach the height of, say, The Disappeance of Eleanor Rigby, there is very much to recommend in order  to appreciate and enjoy A Beautiful Now.

[star v=35]