Is Not So Innocent Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2019)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Not So Innocent, a standout production of 2019, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Modern Cinema landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Ella Nova is hosting her best friend Janes birthday pre-drink, but can't bring herself to leave her apartment in the post-pre state of messy, spilled drink chaos. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Modern Cinema are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Ella Nova is hosting her best friend Janes birthday pre-drink, but can't bring herself to leave her apartment in the post-pre state of messy, spilled drink chaos. She hangs back to do a quick tidy-up as the group heads over to the bar Jake walks back in. Jane's ex-boyfriend, her long-time crush. But the way Jake is looking at her and how stupidly hot its making her Ella can't keep fighting the energy between them. Paige Owens is taking care of her ex, Seth, after an accident. Paige comes to realize that energy between them never went away. Paige eventually learns that Seth's leg had very much healed, and that he hadn't let her know. Because he really, missed being around her. Jenna Fox has conducted hundreds of interviews before, but Jenna is nervous for this one"

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The presence of Paige Owens provides a necessary level of professionalism to the production, even when the underlying script struggles to maintain a consistent tone. It is a testament to their skill that they remain the most engaging element of the film.

The direction by Jacky St. James is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 108 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Not So Innocent truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Modern Cinema, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 0/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Not So Innocent explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2019 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Jacky St. James respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Not So Innocent is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Paige Owens or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Not So Innocent is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.