Two teenagers, Margaret (Kathryn Newton) and Mark (Kyle Allen), are stuck in an infinite time loop. Their lives never change as they are forced to relive the same day over and over again. However, when the two meet for the first time, they determine that there is more to this particular day than they originally believed. As they grow closer, they decide that, just like Pokémon trainers, they will track down and collect a series of perfect moments. This collection of moments will forever be referred to as The Map of Tiny Perfect Things.
The infinite time loop has somehow weaseled its way into mainstream cinema and has become a force to be reckoned with. Films like Palm Springs and Happy Death Day have taken the world by storm and encouraged filmmakers to continue this trend. The Map of Tiny Perfect Things, while similar to those films, finds its own way in the world of film, bringing to life a story that focuses on the small scale rather than the large.
“Why think small?” one might ask. Well, the answer here is simple: because most of life is just filler, but these tiny perfect moments are what make it worth living. The Map of Tiny Perfect Things focuses entirely on these instances of brilliance and transports viewers to a world of unique adventure and beauty. I felt emotionally attacked throughout the course of The Map of Tiny Perfect Things. That sentiment is one that can be scary, but here, in writer Lev Grossman and director Ian Samuels’ masterpiece, that feeling is enticing and embracing. The constant blitz of vehemence draws me further into the story and puts viewers in the shoes of both Mark and Margaret.
Newton is young, but has had her fair share of opportunities over the course of the past few years. She, time and time again, proves her worth in Hollywood and shows viewers around the world that her talent is comparable to some of the greats. She fills the screen and makes every scene feel momentous in nature. She's a shoe-in to steal the show and bring audiences to their knees, however, opposite Newton in The Map of Tiny Perfect Things is Allen. Allen is a name that I am unfamiliar with and was unsure going into this film of how well he would fare in a leading role. However, in the opening moments, it’s clear that he possesses a vigor that will carry his character’s presence from beginning to end. They have an astonishing chemistry that allows the film, in each and every tick of the never-ending clock, to be successful. These two young talents have finally found each other, and the world is better for it; here’s to hoping they find one another again in the future.
Both Mark and Margaret are relatable, understandable, and jealousy evoking (for a number of reasons). Margaret takes some time to develop, and she’s much more difficult to figure out than Mark, and while much of Mark’s success as a character is a testament to his talents, the opening sequence, one of near perfection, plays a significant role in this development. There are a series of significantly lengthy shots throughout the first few minutes of The Map of Tiny Perfect Things that are dedicated solely to helping Mark quickly grow and resonate with viewers. These shots express just how down to earth, but wildly unique Mark is, and, more importantly, viewers are able to plunge themselves right into the story as a result of this opening sequence.
The Map of Tiny Perfect Things, at its root, is about the hidden beauty that exists in the world. With that being said, it’s imperative that these moments of grace are captured and presented to audiences effectively. The cinematography, led by Andrew Wehde, does in fact convey the existence of beauty in the world in which we live, immersing viewers in something magical and full of life.
The Map of Tiny Perfect Things is bright and beautiful, opening the world’s eyes to the reality that everything in life, particularly the tiny things, are important. Even if there are aspects of this film that you don’t love (which I can’t imagine possible) the message that’s worn on the sleeves of The Map of Tiny Perfect Things is sure to resonate with you. The Map of Tiny Perfect Things is for everyone.
Directed by Ian Samuels.
Written by Lev Grossman.
Starring Kathryn Newton, Kyle Allen, Jermaine Harris, Anna Mikami, Josh Hamilton, Cleo Fraser, etc.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/10
Comments