I'm Totally Fine Review - Right Idea, Wrong Tone
I'm Totally Fine's director Brandon Dermer and writer Alisha Ketry have the proper idea. Unfortunately, the movie's title does it justice. Although the writing has its moments and the acting is strong, the movie does not stand out. Natalie Morales, a former cast member of Parks and Recreation, plays an alien who resembles a human in the movie, and Jillian Bell makes a dramatic turn. I'm Totally Fine isn't subtle or funny enough to make a meaningful comment on the subject of dealing with grief, despite the fact that the story's central theme is dealing with it.
Vanessa (Bell) and Jennifer (Morales) launch an organic soda business and secure a significant distribution agreement that will propel them forward. To mark the event, they even organise a party. There is only one issue: Jennifer is no longer alive. Until an extraterrestrial with a resemblance to Jennifer shows up, Vanessa is forced to spend a weekend alone in a rental home filled with party decorations and continuous thoughts of her lost friend. Initially in complete denial, Vanessa is forced to acknowledge that something strange is happening until the extraterrestrial starts relaying experiences only Jennifer could know.
The unusual duo eventually develops a shaky bond that helps them both understand what they want to know most in life and what it takes to truly connect with someone.
Simply put, I'm Totally Fine means just that. Although the movie is skillfully shot and professionally performed, it lacks the spark that would make it a delightful sci-fi dramedy. The components are all present. Bell and Morales are dependable leads, but it might be an exaggeration to suggest that they click. It has less to do with the actors' abilities and more to do with how they were cast in relation to the requirements of the film. Morales' interpretation of an alien is all vocal; aside from making random jokes, she doesn't do much with her body to suggest the presence of an alien.
I'm Totally Fine definitely has some humorous parts, but it only goes so far and doesn't have enough humour to securely pass for a comedy. The idea for the movie is straightforward and intriguing enough to have the makings of a terrific film. Screwball comedies, which include characters hanging out with someone who is out of their element or not from this world, have a long and illustrious history. I'm Totally Fine, however, does not come from that tradition.