Is Useless Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2020)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2020, Useless represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Drama, Family category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into When her mother dies tragically in a car accident, 17-year-old Jessie is taken in by her aunt and uncle, in Western Montana. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Drama, Family 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: "When her mother dies tragically in a car accident, 17-year-old Jessie is taken in by her aunt and uncle, in Western Montana. She finds herself in a new school, with the unexpected attention of a cocky bull rider- and an almost impossible need to hold on to the one connection she has with her mother: barrel racing. Doing anything she can to get around horses, Jessie does not give up on her dream, despite not having a horse of her own. But when her Uncle Mick finds a deal on a cutting horse that has been deemed useless, Jessie finds a new hope in life, and the chance at barrel racing she's been needing."

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 ensemble, led by Travis W Bruyer, delivers a professional and engaging performance that satisfies the requirements of the Drama, Family genre. While it may not reinvent the wheel, the commitment to the material is evident in every frame.

The direction by Josiah Burdick 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 90 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 Useless 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, Family, 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 perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 6.9/10 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, Useless explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2020 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Josiah Burdick 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, Useless 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 Travis W Bruyer or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Useless is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.