This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 211! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.
Hey friends!
So, last night I checked out the 2022 film “Next Exit” directed by Mali Elfman. I went into this movie expecting a full-blown sci-fi adventure, but boy, was I in for a surprise. Instead, what I got was a deeply character-driven drama that pulled me in a totally different direction.
The premise of “Next Exit” is super intriguing. Imagine a world where scientific proof of the afterlife exists, thanks to a breakthrough by Dr. Stevens, played by Karen Gillan. People now have the option to end their lives painlessly and transition to the afterlife. Sounds like a wild sci-fi ride, right? Well, not quite. The film focuses more on the human side of this concept, diving into the lives of two main characters, Teddy (Rahul Kohli) and Rose (Katie Parker), who decide to take this final journey together.
Teddy and Rose are total strangers, each with their own reasons for wanting to check out early. They end up carpooling across the country to reach the Life Beyond Institute, where they plan to end their lives. Sounds pretty dark, but stay with me. As they travel, we get to know these characters on a deeper level. Teddy is this charming, sarcastic guy who’s dealing with a lot of guilt and regret. Rahul Kohli brings such warmth and depth to his character; you can’t help but root for him.
Rose, on the other hand, is tough and guarded, with a painful past that she’s trying to escape. Katie Parker does an incredible job portraying Rose’s vulnerability and strength. The chemistry between these two actors is fantastic, and their interactions range from funny to heartbreaking. Watching their relationship evolve over the course of the movie was like peeling back layers of an onion—lots of tears, but worth it.
One of the things I loved about “Next Exit” is how it balances the heavy themes with moments of genuine humor and humanity. The road trip setting allows for some quirky encounters and heartfelt conversations that really flesh out the characters.
The film’s pacing is pretty deliberate, so if you’re looking for action-packed sequences, you might be disappointed. But honestly, the slow, reflective pace works here. It gives you time to really connect with Teddy and Rose and understand their struggles. Plus, the cinematography is gorgeous. The wide shots of the American landscape add this poignant sense of journey and transition.
Now, I have to admit, this movie wasn’t quite what I thought it’d be. I went in expecting more sci-fi elements, but what I got was a deeply emotional, character-driven drama. And you know what? I didn’t mind at all. It’s like expecting a rollercoaster and getting a scenic train ride instead. Different, but still pretty great.
So, if you’re in the mood for a film that makes you think and feel, “Next Exit” might just be your ticket. It’s not a traditional sci-fi flick, but it’s a beautiful exploration of life, death, and everything in between.
Catch you tomorrow,
Roger ✌️