Happy Endings Are a Rarity [2018]

Slowly and methodically descending into utter madness, Happy Endings Are a Rarity is a pleasure that gives viewers an unsettling 61 minute display of suspense and horror. A contribution from directors Michael Bardon and Blair Hoyle, this film tells the tale of a man struggling to cope with crippling agoraphobia stemming from severe psychological trauma. Unleashing the best qualities of indie productions with first-class cinematography, an effective story, and solid casting, this film is hitting on something special.

The tone for the movie is set immediately as the opening sequence features the main character, Landon (Will Bryant), suffering the first of many flashbacks in the shower, which slowly pieces together a disturbing puzzle as the flashbacks become darker and more intense over the duration of the film.

Soon after, the film pivots to better times. As Landon is enjoying the company of his long-time girlfriend, Summer (Paige Smith), their alone time is soon interrupted when old friends Jamie (Phil Culton) and Wyatt (Cullen Ries) show up unexpectedly to reminisce over intoxicating beverages. As conversation continues, it eventually takes a slight awkward turn when future plans are at the forefront of discussion before simmering back to a more light-hearted discourse. Unfortunately for Landon, this night proves to be the calm before the storm.

Although only being briefly referenced during the first fragment of the movie, it isn’t long before it is revealed that Landon has been suffering from crippling agoraphobia and hasn’t left his house for four years, which was brought on by a traumatic event involving his parents. The condition relegates Landon to isolation and makes him a prisoner of his surroundings, unable to escape mentally and psychically.

Further prodding from his clique over his inability to leave his house coupled with a series of unexplainable events not only complicates relationships, but leaves Landon pondering whether he is dealing with the supernatural while others suspect his cabin fever has taken its toll.

Eventually, the mystery finally unravels, albeit slowly, as the film comes to a head while delivering surprisingly dark, unexpected revelations.

Altogether, Happy Endings Are a Rarity excels in many respects but it shines particularly bright in two specifics: an accurate rendering of mental health struggles and cinematography.

Arguably the highlight of this indie feature, for me, is the relatable and accurate portrayal of mental health struggles. Granted, Landon‘s agoraphobia falls on the extreme side of the spectrum, there is enough crossover with milder mental conditions that allow viewers to easily invest, relate, and sympathize. They effectively capture the essence of the struggle faced by the millions and highlight just how limiting mental issues can be. What is more, the accusations of his mental hangups being a choice rather than actual condition is an unfortunate and toxic exchange that takes place on the reg throughout the world, and I’m glad they didn’t shy from portraying this facet as well. This was a true case of dotting I’s and crossing T’s, or put another way, it was really solid writing from co-director Hoyle (story and script) and Bobby Canipe Jr. (story).

Of course, the cinematography (by Matt Kiser) completely changed the overall trajectory for the better. The black and white visuals called back to the early days of cinema, and they competently made use of various angles, shadow, and intensity. This didn’t feel like a low-budget production in any sense due to the decisions here, and it allowed them to cultivate a depressed and isolated atmosphere that really complemented the story. Additionally, the cleverness to shoot the extended flashback in full color for emphasis was a stroke of artistic brilliance.

Indeed, this feature has much more to offer. It comes bolstered with an adequate story, incredible casting that oozes chemistry and turns in convincing performances, appropriately placed mood setting soundtracks, and although the dialogue can be a bit stale at times, it mostly meets the moment.

By and large, Happy Endings Are a Rarity is a masterclass on how to craft a quality, low-budget indie production that feels like it isn’t lacking in the resources department. If you’ve got an hour to invest, you will be rewarded with an entertaining watch that showcases the best qualities of indie productions.

Stamper score: 8/10.