Directed by Vika Evdokimenko and written by Oliver Shuster, a housewarming gets super weird when guests are spiked with a mysterious drug that colours the night. Starring: Olivia Vinall, Richard Gadd, Killian Coyle, Sophie Kennedy Clark, Danny Ashok and Umi Myers.
There’s a good concept at the heart of Truth Serum, diving into a night of unfiltered honesty and watching the chaos ensue, slightly reminiscent of 2018s Nothing to Hide. However, there isn’t really a great deal of chaos, the pacing is a little slow and the comedy feels like it’s holding back. The style of Oliver Shuster’s writing feels very influenced by the 2000’s era of British comedy, shows like Green Wing and Peep Show. It’s a little bit old-fashioned and playing things quite safe.
The same can be said of Vika Evdokimenko’s direction, it’s solid work but it’s not leaning into the downward spiral of its characters. It doesn’t capture the messiness and carnage of their truth-telling. It has a great right in the action, getting up close and personal style, which is a good attempt to heighten the tension. The quality of the cinematography (by Lorena Pagés) is similarly good work but there’s just something missing to bring a louder, more brash energy to this strange evening.
Bringing through that sitcom feel again is the performances, they all hit those typically British, tongue-in-cheek notes. It’s a strong ensemble, but Danny Ashok and Umi Myers are the standouts, they bring something more genuine to the table. They lean into the comedy but also present sincerely interesting characters with good chemistry. They simply have a more unique presence than most of the cast. Although Richard Gadd does a great job of hitting that quintessential lad vibe and his character has an entertaining evolution once the truth starts coming out. Giving him a little bit more room to explore different emotions, which he does very well.
Truth Serum has a solid foundation but struggles to break out of its box, it’s playing things far too safe and not taking the opportunity to let loose. The comedy is fairly timid, missing a bigger edge or brashness, the direction is good but very familiar and not taking risks. There’s a wonderful ensemble at work, they’re really enjoyable to watch but Danny Ashok and Umi Myers bring a little something extra, Ashok being very sweet and Myers having a good kick to her personality. It’s entertaining but it just doesn’t get as ‘super weird’ as hoped.
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