Written and directed by David Ketterer Spencer, a chance encounter between old friends Kevin and Dani leads to an unexpected day-long adventure through New York City as they attempt to return a stranger’s lost wallet, forcing them to confront unresolved feelings and life-changing decisions. Starring: Ruby Cruz, Eric Berryman, Janeane Garofalo, Mozhan Navabi, Laith Nakli, Willie C. Carpenter, Aubie Merrylees, Anthony Ruiz, Viet Vo and Evangeline Young.
David Ketterer Spencer opens Souvenir on this wonderfully unusual, charming, funny note, which was a terrific choice to introduce viewers to the original, endearing tone of the film. That clever touch is one of many throughout Souvenir, Spencer shows a clear talent for realising the power of small creative additions to build the personality and charisma of your film. The other way those clever touches surface is with a hint of mystery, Spencer keeps you guessing about what’s truly going on beneath the surface for these characters and slowly unravels them throughout.
Characters who are simply effortless to watch, they’re so well written, and given well rounded personalities and individuality. They’re then brought to life beautifully by Ruby Cruz and Eric Berryman, their chemistry and connection is utterly organic. They have a natural banter, a convincing friendship, a light flirtation but also walls to break down. Everything about the way they interact with each other is perfectly done. Cruz and Berryman both give genuinely exceptional, authentic performances. They’re then excellently supported by a host of wonderful cameos, with Willie C. Carpenter, Laith Nakli and Janeane Garofalo in particularly providing another massive boost to the huge personality which Souvenir has to offer.
The story makes for a terrific low-key adventure, there’s a nice underlying tension, it’s unexpected, there’s a little bit of suspense and plenty of encounters with random, somewhat eccentric, strangers. It’s paced superbly, it’s continually adding to itself, it holds your attention seamlessly and it’s supported by a great visual. The direction from Spencer takes advantage of that classic NYC feel, as does the strong cinematography work from Arlene Muller. Together they craft an aesthetic which matches the warmth, charm and fresh feel of Souvenir as a whole.
Souvenir is an immensely enjoyable, understated adventure. David Ketterer Spencer fills it with personality and charm, it’s captivating from start to finish, sincere and honest. Ruby Cruz and Eric Berryman give such genuine performances, they’re effortless to watch as they have phenomenal chemistry, and they’re a little bit adorable too. It’s shot in a classic fashion, it’s thoughtful and lets the story speak for itself, and it moves extremely well. This is an impressive, entertaining and brilliant debut feature from Spencer.
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