New Life opens with a young girl (Hayley Erin, Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists) rushing away from someone or something. Blood running down her head, she is obviously in a panic. As it turns out, Jessica is heading north to Canada but an agent for hire named Elsa (Sonya Walger, For All Mankind) has been tasked to stop her. The two are linked by more than the pursuit, however.
The Fantasia Film Festival World Premiere moves at a methodical pace. The first half is spent getting to know Jessica and Elsa. The initial draw will be the mystery surrounding the chase. Who is the shadowy group and why are they chasing one girl.? Though the segments with Jessica sometimes move a little too slowly, a strong undercurrent of tension runs through New Life.
Elsa is the emotional core of the story. She has been diagnosed with ALS and is alone. Finding Jessica is not just a job for her. Successfully completing the task will allow her to prove something to herself. The idea brings layers to a character that at first seems too derivative. Her private struggles are heartbreaking and endearing.
The strong performances and suspense are the focal point of New Life. A stunning twist sees the film transform from contemplative character study into all out horror. It is a decision that could have derailed the movie. Excellent writing ensures this does not happen while hammering home the parallels between the women.
Leading up to the revelation, it is hard not to feel like the plot is spinning its wheels. New Life asks the audience to sit patiently while there is little progression. This is especially noticeable in the middle. Erin and Wagler carry the film in these moments and the payoff will make it all worth it, however.
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