Review by John Delia, Sr.
Fixing a relationship can be very trying and often upsetting if it doesn’t work out. Thus the subject of the movie Changeland. Nicely acted and a good job of storytelling, the movie does have its moments of comedy and sympathy. Beyond that the film is no more than a vacation in the “Land of Smiles†for Seth Green and Breckin Meyer.
Brandon (Seth Green) has planned and purchased a surprise get-a-way to Thailand for himself and his wife Vanessa for their anniversary. But, a short time before they were going to leave, he finds out she is cheating on him. Calling ahead to his best friend Dan (Breckin Meyer), who has been working on a photography portfolio in Dubai, he invites him to meet him at the retreat.
Arriving at the awesome hotel and grounds, the two are in awe of its beauty. Aware that Brandon is only trying to come to grips with a possible divorce, Dan tries to console him by being inseparable friends they once were so long ago. After enjoying the beauty of Phuket that includes boat trips to nearby islands, beaches and bars, the two finally sit down to discuss what Brandon is going to do about his future with Vanessa.
With no answer in sight and finding single women Pen (Brenda Song) and Dory (Clare Grant), the two decide to let it just fester until Brandon can forget about his problem. It’s the beginning of a change Brandon nor Dan could expect.
Directed and written by Seth Green, the film is more of a dreamland story; and with the locations, a travel video. The camerawork is splendid capturing the nighttime atmosphere of the gorgeous beaches, watering holes, and special dining. Moving on, the lenses opens wide as the two travel by boat to several islands, caves and beaches where they frolic and got to meet Pen and Dory. Then there’s a visit to a grotto where Dan introduces Brandon to Buddha with huge golden statures of the God and the robed Monk who becomes an inspiration to both men.
There you have it, Seth and Breckin play themselves on a lavish vacation they probably would have enjoyed more if they had taken their real partners. Changeland is enjoyable to watch if you like to dream about a having lavish vacation in Phuket, Thailand. But, from the looks of it all, it would be best to take along your significant other, as most of the extras seemed to be accompanied by someone.
Changeland has been R by the MPAA for language and brief drug use. Dreamers should seek the film out, lovers should make it a dinner and a movie, and others only if you really want to watch two guys renew their friendship over a bottle of Mekhong Whiskey (of which they drink a lot of in this film).
FINAL ANALYSIS: Only if you are a dreamer. (2 out to 5 Stars)
Additional Film Information:
Cast: Seth Green, Breckin Meyer, Brenda Song, Clare Grant, Macaulay Culkin, Rose Williams, Kedar Williams-Stirling and wrestler Randy Orton
Directed and written by: Seth Green
Genre: Comedy, Drama
MPAA Rating: R for language and brief drug use.
Running Time: TBD
Opening Date: June 7, 2019
Distributed by: Gravitas Ventures
Released in: Standard