Is Shoelaces Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2018)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Drama cinema, the 2018 release of Shoelaces stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into 'Shoelaces' tells the story of a complicated relationship between an aging father and his special-needs son, whom he abandoned while he was still a young boy. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Drama 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: "'Shoelaces' tells the story of a complicated relationship between an aging father and his special-needs son, whom he abandoned while he was still a young boy. Reuben's (60) kidney's are failing and his son Gadi (35), wants to donate one of his own kidney's to help save his father's life. However, the transplant committee objects to the procedure claiming that Rueben, acting as Gadi's sole legal guardian, does not have the right to authorize such an invasive procedure. Gadi, who recently lost his mother, is afraid of losing his father as well. He feels he finally has the chance to do something meaningful; to become a man and stand on his own. He's furious with the committee's decision and sets out to fight for his right to save his father's life. Through the film's portrayal of a relationship full of love, rejection and co-dependency, it manages to shed some light and question the importance of human life, human connection and if life is even possible without it either one of them."

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 performance by Doval'e Glickman is nothing short of transformative, providing an emotional anchor that tethers the film's more abstract concepts to a relatable human experience. Doval'e Glickman captures the nuance of the script with a performance that will likely define their career for years to come.

The direction by Jacob Goldwasser 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 98 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 Shoelaces 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 Drama, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 7.2/10 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, Shoelaces explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2018 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Jacob Goldwasser 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, Shoelaces serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Doval'e Glickman or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Shoelaces is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.