The 2017 American crime comedy-drama film "Good Time" directed by the Safdie brothers, Josh and Benny, is a captivating and intense cinematic experience. The movie follows the story of Connie Nikas, played by Robert Pattinson, a bank robber who finds himself on a wild adventure after a heist gone wrong.
Plot and Character Development
The film begins with Connie Nikas, a young man from a low-income background, who orchestrates a bank robbery with his developmentally challenged brother, Nick, played by Benny Safdie. The heist takes an unexpected turn when the dye pack in the stolen cash explodes, covering them in bright pink dye. As they attempt to escape, Nick is caught by the police, and Connie sets out on a mission to bail him out.
Throughout the movie, Connie's character is portrayed as a complex and multifaceted individual, driven by a mix of motivations, including loyalty, desperation, and a desire to escape his difficult circumstances. The film's portrayal of Connie's relationship with his brother, Nick, is particularly noteworthy, as it highlights the strong bond between the two siblings and the lengths to which Connie will go to protect and care for his brother.
Themes and Symbolism
One of the primary themes of “Good Time” is the exploration of the consequences of crime and the cyclical nature of poverty. The film depicts a world where characters are trapped in a cycle of violence, addiction, and desperation, with little hope of escape. The use of symbolism, such as the bright pink dye, serves as a visual representation of the chaos and disorder that pervades the characters’ lives.
The film also touches on themes of identity, loyalty, and redemption, as Connie navigates his relationships with those around him, including his brother, his girlfriend, Corey, played by Jennifer Jason Leigh, and a mysterious woman, Crystal, played by Taliah Webster. Through these interactions, Connie's character is revealed to be a flawed but ultimately sympathetic individual, driven by a desire to do what he believes is right, even if it means breaking the law.
| Cast Member | Character |
|---|---|
| Robert Pattinson | Connie Nikas |
| Benny Safdie | Nick Nikas |
| Jennifer Jason Leigh | Corey |
| Taliah Webster | Crystal |
Reception and Impact
“Good Time” received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising the film’s originality, direction, and performances. The movie holds a 92% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with an average rating of 7.9⁄10. The critical consensus on the site reads: “Fast-paced, well-acted, and wildly entertaining, Good Time is a heist thriller that’s as fun as it is frenetic.”
The film's success can be attributed to the Safdie brothers' unique directing style, which blends elements of crime drama, comedy, and social commentary. The movie's exploration of themes such as poverty, crime, and redemption resonated with audiences and critics alike, cementing its place as one of the standout films of 2017.
Awards and Nominations
“Good Time” received several awards and nominations, including the Grand Jury Prize at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival. Robert Pattinson’s performance as Connie Nikas earned him numerous award nominations, including the Independent Spirit Award for Best Male Lead. The film’s success marked a significant turning point in Pattinson’s career, solidifying his status as a talented and versatile actor.
- Grand Jury Prize, 2017 Cannes Film Festival
- Independent Spirit Award for Best Male Lead, Robert Pattinson
- Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Male, Benny Safdie
- Independent Spirit Award for Best Cinematography, Sean Price Williams
What is the plot of the movie “Good Time”?
+The movie follows the story of Connie Nikas, a bank robber who finds himself on a wild adventure after a heist gone wrong. He must navigate a complex web of relationships and circumstances to bail out his developmentally challenged brother, Nick.
Who directed the movie “Good Time”?
+The movie was directed by the Safdie brothers, Josh and Benny.
What is the significance of the bright pink dye in the movie?
+The bright pink dye serves as a visual representation of the chaos and disorder that pervades the characters’ lives. It is a symbol of the consequences of crime and the cyclical nature of poverty.
