Movie Review: ‘Good Side of Bad’ – Mental Health and Family Bonds

Mental health challenges are undeniably tough to deal with on your own, but they can be even tougher when you’re close to someone who’s struggling with some form of mental challenges.

This emotional reality forms the core of ‘Good Side of Bad‘, an evocative family drama directed by Alethea Root. She shares writing credits with Ciera Danielle and Jules Bruff, weaving a story that is as raw as it is touching. The film is based on the book ‘The Good Side of Bad’ by Beverly Olevin. Though I haven’t read the book, the richness of the film’s narrative suggests it would be a compelling read.

At the heart of the story is Florence (played by Lexi Simonsen), a young photographer who has a severe mental break, her older siblings  Sara (played by Jules Bruff) and Peter (played by Alex Quijano) come together to help her heal. However, their journey is anything but smooth. The film asks tough questions like how far are siblings willing to go to help in such troubling times. And how much are we willing to let others help us?

The film opens, with a voiceover from Florence against a backdrop of a family photo. She describes their mother as a “semi-famous singer” who was always on the road and as someone who, “didn’t know how to be a mother.” We learn also that Sara, the elder sister, essentially raised her. This sets the tone for a story that’s as much about Florence’s mental health as it is about the family dynamics that shaped her.

Then we see Florence running from nothing whilst she jumps over a bridge. She survives and Sara gets called in and it’s believed that Florence must have attempted suicide. Florence is dealing with anxiety and depression, believes she was being pursued by “hooded men” and jumped off a bridge to escape them.

When she gets thrown out by her roommate for failing to pay her part of her rent she is forced to go stay with her sister Sara. The situation deteriorates as Florence’s behaviour becomes more erratic, eventually revealing signs of schizophrenia. Sara’s patience and determination to help her younger sister are tested at every turn. Her efforts to get Florence to see a doctor or enter a psychiatric facility only exacerbate tensions between them. Meanwhile, Peter must balance his support for Florence with caring for their ageing, forgetful mother. These intersecting challenges paint a vivid picture of a family stretched to its limits but refusing to break.

Performance-wise, ‘Good Side of Bad‘ delivers well. Lexi Simonsen is exceptional as Florence, capturing the nuances of a young woman navigating mental crises. Her moments of clarity and mental fits are portrayed with such authenticity that it’s impossible not to empathize with her. Jules Bruff, as Sara, is equally convincing, embodying the frustration, love, and helplessness that come with being a caring big sister. Together, their performances anchor the film in emotional truth.

The film’s 1-hour 36-minute runtime provides a balanced exploration of the siblings’ lives and struggles. The direction ensures the story feels intimate, while the cinematography offers compelling visuals that shift between Florence’s perspective and those of her siblings. Particularly striking are the scenes depicting Florence’s schizophrenic episodes, where the cinematography and editing combine seamlessly to immerse the audience in her experience.

Another standout element is the film’s sound design. The score is deeply imposing, heightening the emotional weight of key scenes. While there are moments where the music overpowers the dialogue, these instances are few and don’t detract significantly from the narrative. Instead, the score often amplifies the intensity of Florence’s mental state and the family’s collective struggle.

Ultimately, ‘Good Side of Bad‘ is a story about mental health and the indispensable role of family in facing it. Toward the film’s end, Florence reflects, “The imperfect perfection that is my family helps me get through.” It’s a sentiment that resonates universally. None of us can navigate life’s challenges alone, and having someone who cares makes all the difference. As the film poignantly reminds us, “maybe we are just here to be here for and with each other.”

With its heartfelt performances, thoughtful direction, and compelling narrative, ‘Good Side of Bad‘ earns a solid 7.5/10. It’s a touching reminder of the power of connection and an honest portrayal of the resilience required to face mental health challenges both as individuals and as families.