Written and directed by Angal Field, co-written by Eliza Callahan, a New York City police officer goes undercover to infiltrate a drug ring. Starring: Lux Pascal, Nicky DeMarie, Cole Doman, Jesse Ruuttila and David Woo.
Angal Field makes a great first impression as Bust opens, it has a strong aesthetic with a superb texture. There’s a nostalgic feel to it, capturing an old-school New York air. Then moving forward, Field adds layers to that, beginning with an excellent use of the quiet. The next is the tension which intertwines with the film’s atmosphere. Those choices build a certain weight but at the same time Field manages to hold onto a fairly casual nature which works really well. As well as having an organic flow, there’s a lot of movement to the direction, keeping the film on its toes.
Part of that layering is the story, one of Bust’s strongest elements is the questions that it asks. It wades into some fascinating and murky ethical territory, it’s the tip of the iceberg, leaving you with an interesting discussion to be had. Outside of that, this temporary relationship which is built between Lux Pascal and Nicky DeMarie is nicely undefined. It could be interpreted in a number of different ways, there’s an empathy there as two Trans women, knowing the harshness of that existence. Then there’s almost a flirtation which is captivating considering the story’s basis of entrapment.
The performances are to be credited for how engaging this momentary connection is. Lux Pascal leads the way with confidence that has an edge of vulnerability and hesitancy. Pascal clearly creates a complex personality, and it’s a shame we only get to visit with her for such a short time. Nicky DeMarie brings the other side of that vulnerability, as well as touching upon what could be either looked at as a naivety or a generosity.
Bust kicks things off with strong direction and cinematography (by Charlotte Hornsby), setting the scene for what becomes a compelling question of ethics, delivered in a natural fashion. It builds a solid weight but never feels heavy, it moves organically and smoothly, adding layers and enhancing its themes. The performances are exceptionally natural and Lux Pascal builds a complexity that leaves you wanting more.
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