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The Way We Speak is a formidable and ambitious drama that shows the power of words. A rich character study with fantastic performances and sharp dialogue, it’s a must-see of 2024.
And The Debate Shall Begin
The film kicks off on the eve of a prestigious debate conference, where intellectuals are poised for a high-stakes showdown. A brash up-and-coming writer, Simon (Patrick Fabian) is ready to bask in the spotlight he eagerly anticipated. Just as he prepares to dazzle the audience, he learns that his best friend and debate rival George Rossi (Ricco DiStefano) has suffered a cardiac arrest. Despite the gravity of his friend’s condition, Simon refuses to postpone, insisting that the show must go on. This decision forces the event staff to scramble for a last-minute replacement.
Simon then finds himself up against an unexpected challenger: Sarah Clawson (Kailey Rhodes), a young, highly acclaimed Christian essayist whose latest book has sold over a million copies. The two debate the existence of God which begins him on a sort of tirade to prove himself.
Meanwhile, Simon’s relationship with his wife Claire (Diana Coconubo), a celebrated medical professional battling her own health issues, becomes fractured. She begins reluctantly behind his choice but grows disenchanted as the drama unfolds. Especially as he becomes increasingly obsessed, more irritable, and drinks heavily. The continuous tumultuous events affect their marriage as well as the conference itself.
Writer/director Ian Ebright has a gift for capturing both the eloquence and disarray that can come with the spoken word. He never undersells its value or strength but utilizes it to show the dynamics between people and the barriers we all face. He doesn’t shy away from the cruelties of humans or the inability we can struggle with at times to be as thoughtful as we would like. Most of the characters here are inherently flawed and there isn’t any hiding.
Exceptionally Spoken
Like a compelling debate, The Way We Speak ensnares you and pulls you along through each intelligent and intellectual foothill. With great finesse and expertly written dialogue. At times bordering on pretentious (sensible given the context) but never stale or disingenuous, there is a real pulse to the proceedings.
source: Gravitas Ventures
Something else that is fascinating about the film is the fact that it centers around a protagonist that you aren’t sure if you should dislike, pity or root for. Especially in this debate setting when two spar with thought and process, instinctually, you want one to win, right? The Way We Speak feels like a cautionary tale, but it also serves as a reminder that sometimes there are no winners.
Patrick Fabian is fantastic, with shades of what we saw in Better Call Saul but amplified. Diana Coconubo is also a stand-out, stealing every scene she is in with an emotional prowess.
This is certainly an opportunity for performance and writing to shine, taking each intricate phrase and putting tone and weight behind it. While most of this movie exists within the space of a debate, there is an internal and external one being had with most of the characters. It’s seen even within the breadth of silence. Ian Ebright does an exquisite job of anchoring his stars and carrying through his vision. It’s a story that explores grief and envy in intricate colorization.
Conclusion:
The Way We Speak is a sophisticated drama that speaks volumes in every scene. It’s engaging, taut, and features wonderful performances with effective precision.
The Way We Speak was released July 23 on VOD in the U.S. and Canada and will be playing at the SOHO International Film Festival in NYC on Sat, Sept 21!
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