Is We Have Always Been on Fire Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2018)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Modern Cinema cinema, the 2018 release of We Have Always Been on Fire stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Set among the dunes and clubs of Fire Island, which have witnessed decades of cruising and dancing, the film blends a performance of Morgan Bassichis's song "We Have Always Been on Fire" with 1976 footage by queer nightlife documentarian Nelson Sullivan. 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: "Set among the dunes and clubs of Fire Island, which have witnessed decades of cruising and dancing, the film blends a performance of Morgan Bassichis's song "We Have Always Been on Fire" with 1976 footage by queer nightlife documentarian Nelson Sullivan. We Have Always Been on Fire traces a queer lineage and engages with loss."

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. Despite the inherent talent of Morgan Bassichis, the performance in We Have Always Been on Fire feels somewhat constrained by a narrative framework that doesn't fully exploit their range. There are flashes of brilliance, but the overall impact is muted.

The direction by Sasha Wortzel 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 6 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 We Have Always Been on Fire 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, We Have Always Been on Fire explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2018 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Sasha Wortzel 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, We Have Always Been on Fire 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 Morgan Bassichis or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, We Have Always Been on Fire is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.