Something You Said Last Night (2022) Drama Movie Review
Luis De Filippis' first film, "Something You Said Last Night," kicks off with a rocky family vacation. Ren, played by Carmen Madonia, tries to ease life's stress by sneaking puffs from her forbidden vape when her disapproving mom, Mona (Ramona Milano), isn't watching. Siena (Paige Evans), Ren's sister, is visibly annoyed about the cottage country vacation, which even their dad, Guido (Joey Parro), isn't excited about, as he's glued to his phone.
The family tension builds as the daughters remain attached to their screens, seemingly counting down the moments until the vacation is over. Siena finds a summer fling as a distraction, while Ren barely tolerates her mom's constant scolding. The Canadian-Italian family's conflicts intensify, leading to explosive arguments.
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De Filippis crafts a tight domestic drama where each character's frustration unfolds into volatile fights. Years of unspoken resentment, parental disappointments, and sibling rivalry spill out like steam in a rented cottage kitchen. "Something You Said Last Night" is more than a family war; it delves into the quieter pains of feeling unheard or disrespected. The camera captures silent eye rolls and sighs, revealing no outright villains—everyone believes they are justified in their arguments.
The film portrays the familiar dynamics of sisters quarreling, a mom asking prying questions, and a dad observing in silence. Despite the conflicts, moments of peace, inside jokes, and hugs highlight the family's depth beyond verbal disputes.
Despite numerous conflicts, De Filippis doesn't emphasize that the main character, Ren, is a trans woman. Ren's identity is accepted by the family, and the film focuses on exploring family dynamics rather than dwelling on her transgender status. De Filippis, also a trans woman, skillfully navigates the highs and lows of the family's dynamics over a few short days.
Madonia, the actor playing Ren, perfectly captures the confusion and restlessness typical of someone in their mid-twenties. Ren embodies the uncertainty about life's direction, the feeling that there's more to the world than one can afford, and the conflicting desires to be independent yet occasionally rely on parental support. Despite her calm demeanor, Ren's body language reveals a hint of childish resentment when dealing with her mom and sister, especially during arguments. Having experienced independence away from home, Ren is reluctant to give it up and fears becoming a burden to her parents. She maintains emotional distance, aware that she'll eventually have to move back.
To evoke the nostalgia of family vacations, filmmaker De Filippis and cinematographer Norm Li shot "Something You Said Last Night" on 35mm film, adding a nostalgic quality to the movie. The visual style makes even a crowded shoreline and sunlit sandwiches appear appealing. De Filippis skillfully brings forth memories and emotions specific to this family but relatable to anyone who has experienced sibling conflicts, struggled with breaking bad news to parents, or faced the disappointment that can come with pursuing a writing career. While the family itself may not be picture-perfect, De Filippis flawlessly tells their story in a way that resonates with audiences.