2020 * Not Rated * 1h 43m It's hard to describe this little indie gem of a film. It's part courtroom drama, part sci-fi. Sort of. It's based on an award-winning play and has a staged feel to it. I found it thoroughly engaging and guessing right until the last scene. The film centers around Mr. Otis, with a nuanced performance by Josh Katawick. We first see him in prison where he's met by his court-appointed attorney. He's been accused of assassinating the president of the United States. There's almost nt doubt that he's committed the crime, since there are witnesses and video footage of him in the act.
The mystery and drama starts when investigators try to determine his actual identity. Someone with his name recently died, and his vehicle is registered in that person's name. He freely admits to the crime and explains that he's perfectly sane. His explanation is that he's actually from 40 years in the future, and he's been sent back in time to assassinate the president. The unnamed president is a tyrant who is on a path to divide the American people to the point where our country devolves into total chaos. And the world becomes a total mess as well.
I found "Who is Amos Otis" to be a thought-provoking, well written and acted drama. I'm surprised it hasn't received more attention. If you're looking for an entertaining, intelligent film, give this one a go!
4 out of 5 stars
Currently streaming for free on Hoopla (with your library card) and Tubi. Also on Amazon Prime.
No comments:
Post a Comment