Actress Summer Shelton collaborates with the underrated Clayne Crawford for the romantic drama "You & I," produced by Story Farm and Back40. Shelton's multifaceted involvement in the film includes writing, directing, editing, and making the film alongside Crawford.
Sara (Shelton) and Joesph (Crawford) are two former flames who have an
unexpected meeting when they reunite for a birthday weekend for their mutual friend Misty (Ashley Shelton). Naturally, a series of events will lead Sara and Joseph to explore the "What if's?" opportunity that could have been with the one who got away.
One of the first things potential viewers should know is that "You & I" is a small film driven by dialogue and performances. No fistfights, special effects, or one-liners are meant to evoke laugh-out-loud moments. Additionally, the cast comprises only four actors for most of the film.
Kudos to Shelton for the way she introduces us to Sara and Joesph. From a directorial standpoint, she takes a yin and yang approach. Shelton Sara has a look in her eyes that she needs to exhale from the hustle and bustle of life, while Joesph is somewhat content. When they two lock eyes during their reunion, they have a history that may or may not have ended amicably.
I commend Shelton for a line of dialogue between Joesph and Mark ( ), Misty's beau, where Joesph asks why he didn't tell him she would be here. It's a relatable moment that anyone who has ever seen two friends break up and try their best to reunite will find relatable. "You & I" follows the typical beats one would expect from a film like this. However, it's a moment that gives our leads shine.
Shelton's script avoids turning them into a lust-filled moment, but instead, we have two adults communicating and trying to find closure. Summer Shelton plays her character as organic, and beyond her tough exterior, she is a woman who is open to writing her wrongs with Joesph.
Clayne Crawford, on the other hand, portrays his character and everyman. Joesph's rationale explains why the two broke up and Crawford sold the material. Crawford has always had it factor since his debut in teen-centered films in 2002. I've always felt that while he could have taken the path of action films, his true passion is that of a character actor.
At its core, "You & I" succeeds on the strength of its two lead performers. When a relationship ends, we often wonder about what we didn't get to say and want answers about why the love story ended the way it did. While most of us will never get a chance to make another memory with the one that got away, director Summer Shelton crafts a promising debut that makes up for that.
Final Grade: B+
"You & I" premieres this Friday, October 18, 2024, at Lumiere Music Hall in Los Angeles.
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