“Tape” is the definition of an indie film. Its 86 minutes are shot in real time with a single camcorder. It’s set entirely within the confines of a dingy hotel room. There are only 3 characters. What’s not to love?
This Richard Linklater film was first screened at the Sundance Film Festival in January of 2001. It was written by Stephen Belber – based off his play of the same name. It features Ethan Hawke as a righteous drug dealer, Robert Sean Leonard as an indie filmmaker, and Uma Thurman as a former love interest of both men.
1 Room, 3 People
The simplicity of the story is captured perfectly with the cinematography. The use of camcorders and tawdry lighting brings the viewer to the center of the tight confines of a two-star hotel room. It looks crass and sounds amateurish – the actors themselves and the gripping narrative our only reminder that we’re watching a movie and not a real scenario.
Vince (Hawke) and Jon (Leonard) are old friends reminiscing about their high school days. Since that time, Vince has become a low level drug dealer while Jon is an indie filmmaker in town for a screening at a festival. I grew up loving “Dead Poets Society” and it was really fun to watch these two actors reunite 12 years after that film dropped. They have a rapport that allows us to believe they are true friends, and it works with the telling of this particular piece.
Simple and Effective
The conversation turns dark at one point, and the tension in the room begins to mount. Vince is revealed to have broken up with a girlfriend due to the “violent tendencies” he has. Jon speaks with a confidence that could be perceived as condescending. “I was shy in high school.” He explains at one point. “Oh great.” Vince responds, “So now you’re an overt dick.”
The acting is all there is in this story, and it’s excellent from the two men. Amy (Uma Thurman) is introduced to the room and continues the trend. All three members of the cast have their moments to shine, and none will disappoint. Especially as the drama ramps up.
Behind the camera, Richard Linklater dazzles as he always does. Close-ups of the three players reveal a high level of intimacy as they deliver lines to each other – and to themselves. There is a great use of the hotel mirrors as well, which craft artistic framing and some deeper character motivation.
Richard Linklater is the Best
“Tape” starts as the type of movie we’ve come to expect. A pair of Generation-Xers bickering about the inevitable trip into adulthood. There’s nothing special about the hotel room they are in. It’s the type of place we’ve all stayed at dozens of times. As the story unfolds and the suspense piles up, it will make you wonder the history of rooms you’ve stayed in before.
“Tape” is an excellent watch. Students of film will love the dissection of crafting a gem with such simplicity. Average movie fans will enjoy the deep suspense and the taut real time format with which the story is presented.
“Tape” can be rented via YouTube.
