Directed by Maya Ahmed and written by leading actors Heather Bayles and Timothy J. Cox. Take a look into the marriage of an average middle class couple, they’ve been married for 20 years, and marriage has definitely changed them but, for better or for worse? Also starring: Destiny Elexis and K.T. Doyle.
Marriage is certainly a topic that has been endlessly explored in film and television so it’s a tricky one to find a new angle with, but Heather Bayles and Timothy J. Cox achieved that with Good Luck to Me. It’s an unusual evening, but it’s also refreshingly civil. Difficulties in marriage can typically be portrayed with heated, aggravated moments, depression or vicious envy but instead they chose a quiet reflection.
Maya Ahmed establishes a solid atmosphere so that you can sense the tension and awkwardness, and you can start to put the pieces of the bigger picture together. Ahmed employs a very grounded style, there’s a simplicity to the direction, using primarily still shots. There are advantages and disadvantages to that, it does help with the tone, but it also lacks a little bit of personality. There are times where it feels as though it might have benefited from some movement, although the editing work does try to compensate for that, and it’s well done.
Aesthetically, it’s a story of two halves, the earlier scenes feel like they’re hitting the contrast a little too hard. Yet, when it moves into the second half, as the events progress later into the evening, there’s a much better colouring and texture to the visual, which adds some good depth. Though the blocking in those final scenes feels like it missed the mark, the background actors needed to have a bit more separation for such intimate scenes. Having them up so close and personal in those vulnerable moments is a bit of a distraction, hindering the performances slightly.
Something that’s a shame as the performances from the leading actors are definitely the most consistent and strongest element that Good Luck to Me has to offer. Timothy J. Cox immediately brings an endearing nervous energy, a fragility and insecurity. Making his character inherently relatable, and very natural. While Heather Bayles goes for something more contained and composed, portraying her character’s attempt to remain steadfast in her choices and look ahead, rather than falling foul of her emotions. The two of them have an interesting chemistry, they do well to create the feel of a connection that has a history but is also rooted in respect and admiration, despite how much their relationship may have changed.
Good Luck to Me approaches marriage from a new perspective while exploring a familiar story, taking a thoughtful, unusual route rather than the usual angst and resentment-filled one. Heather Bayles and Timothy J. Cox do well on all fronts, having led the film, written it and produced it. Their performances are understated and sympathetic, Maya Ahmed’s style reflects that with an earnest, modest quality. It does feel like it was primed for some biting sarcasm and the aesthetic can be hit or miss at times, but it’s an interesting change of pace.
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