Anthologies are typically a format found in comedies and horror. Whether it’s because fully developing characters in a drama is easier within a feature-length format, who knows? Writer-director Mark Schwab bucks trends with the dramatic anthology Exteriors. Does the storytelling device work here, or should this have been one full story?
In the first segment, Logan (Matthew Bridges) has convinced his best friend, Wyatt (Christian Gabriel), to take some new headshots of the aspiring actor. Afterwards, Logan goes on and on about his last date and how well it went. Unbeknownst to Logan, his new love, Shane (Jacob Betts), is Wyatt’s ex, who he still hasn’t gotten entirely over. Well, at least Shane is convinced that is the case when Wyatt confronts him about his intentions with Logan.
“Unbeknownst to Logan, his new love, Shane, is Wyatt’s ex…”
While some of the dialogue in this tale feels improvised in a meandering way, its strength lies in the acting and the ending. The three actors fully inhabit their roles. Bridges conveys excitement, lust, and puppy love enthusiasm genuinely. Gabriel’s a little selfish, very snarky, and perfect as the lead of this story. Betts is good-looking and fun, and it is understandable how people fall for him so easily. The final scene of this initial segment is bittersweet but also the best way it could end without feeling treacle.
The second thread of Exteriors is about Jason (Julian Goza), a pool cleaner just about to take over his boss’ business. Then, the owner of the house comes home, and Jason instantly recognizes him. Andy (Fernando Jose) and Jason met eight years ago while vacationing at the same spot. They hooked up for a one-night stand, which literally saved Jason’s life. However, Andy might not be the person Jason has imagined he is for all these years.
Goza is superb as the earnest Jason. His ramblings feel authentic, in the same way that letting out pent-up excitement is very cathartic. Jose is good as well, especially in the more dramatic last half of the segment.
"…Mark Schwab bucks trends..."
