Uncertainty (NR)

The 2008 independent movie “Uncertainty” follows a formula that I personally love in a story; two parallel timelines that depict the same characters and the vast differences that one little decision can or cannot have on their existence. Written, produced, and directed by a pair of indie filmmakers (Scott McGehee and David Siegel), it’s a true exercise in the fine art of watching and appreciating a film.

“Uncertainty” stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, who has been the feature in several movies I have reviewed recently, and is quickly climbing the ranks as an actor I truly respect. From the popular “10 Things I Hate About You,” to the lesser known but equally (if not more) impressive “The Walk,” Gordon-Levitt possesses the quality of a true every man in his demeanor, and the audience can easily find themselves relating to him through his work. I particularly enjoy his nonchalant sense of humor that makes him feel like he’s just one of the guys. With “Uncertainty,” Gordon-Levitt is paired with the breathtaking Lynn Collins, who may be recognized from roles in “X-Men” or the HBO series “True Blood.” Collins acts with a strong intensity that plays well with her character here, and has the perfect emotional charge to keep us guessing throughout the story as she serves as a perfect counterpart.

Lynn Collins in a scene from “Uncertainty”

Together they portray Bobby and Kate, a young couple who are featured in every scene of the film, though in a unique way. As the movie opens, Bobby and Kate are standing on the Brooklyn Bridge discussing a major decision in their lives, one that either outcome will have a long lasting imprint on. In a cavalier way, Bobby flips a quarter, implying that the game of chance should make the choice for them. “Why not?” He explains as the coin leaves his fingers. “I’m not afraid of either scenario…I want this to be something we’re doing, not something we’re not doing.”

“Uncertainty” has a strong art house feel to it, and with the simplicity of the story, this aspect works quite well. We get to follow Bobby and Kate in two lifelines; each representing what would (or could) happen as a result of the coin flip and the decision they make. Sepia tones and specific colors are employed to easily identify the different timelines, with some obvious references like clothing or vehicles, to ones far more subtle. It’s like the hipster version of “Sliding Doors” for the super serious and hardcore movie fans. I love the way stories like this play out, in which we see various perspectives of the same characters, set across a 24 hour period of time that begins on July 4.

The characters are written with just enough depth that very little is needed in order to divulge their motives. Kate has a strong family connection, with a large and eclectic mix of kin we see hosting a traditional Independence Day cookout. Bobby is carefree, living in a quintessential bachelor pad and focusing on a career (or lack thereof) in music. They’re both good people, as evidenced by key decisions made in either timeline, one involving a stray dog, the other a cell phone left behind in a taxi cab. I won’t spoil specifics, but the latter turns out to be one of the most gripping and tension filled plot devices of the entire movie.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt in “Uncertainty”

It’s fast paced, falling in at 1:41 minutes, which could have been better served with a tightening up of the final act by a minute of two, but nothing overly glaring. I could critique the end by saying it doesn’t conclude in nearly the exhilarating way one watching may have hoped for, but its nonetheless effective, and you may find yourself watching a second time to try and spot things you missed on the first go-around.

All of life is based on the uncertainty of choices and decisions we are presented with. We all have moments where we could have done one of two things, and always wonder what would have happened if we had gone the other way. “Uncertainty” shows us this exact situation with an exciting thrill ride that will leave you watching on pins and needles.