"Clinic," directed by Aleshia Cowser-Jackson and Aaron Tyson, is a cinematic endeavor that unfortunately falls short of its ambitious goals. This no-budget production attempts to tackle themes that require a depth of insight and skill that the filmmakers struggle to deliver, resulting in a film that lacks substance and coherence.
The storyline follows Lisa, a * with body image insecurities, and her boyfriend Malcom, a final-year medical student. The narrative takes a drastic turn when Lisa decides to undergo buttocks enhancement surgery, despite her rare blood clotting disorder. The film unfolds predictably with disastrous consequences, leading to a series of events that fail to engage the audience.
One of the glaring issues with "Clinic" is the lack of thorough research evident in the script. Scenes lack coherence and fail to establish a proper foundation, ignoring industry-specific procedures and norms, particularly in healthcare. Characters are one-dimensional, acting irrationally without clear motivation, contributing to a lack of emotional investment from the audience.
The absence of character development and progression robs the film of stakes, leaving viewers with little reason to become engaged. The performances, notably by Rayyaan Jameel and Barry Piacente, are generally poor, further hindering the film's impact. Characters like Darla (Roxzane T. Mims) seem to serve no purpose, raising questions about their inclusion in the story.
The cinematography and lighting contribute to the overall amateurish feel of the film. Handheld shots are inconsistent, and lighting often leaves characters dimly lit, detracting from the viewing experience. The editing feels disconnected from the narrative, with attempts at plot twists falling flat, like the character of Dr. Allen (Shavonia Jones), whose homicidal tendencies lack meaningful development.
In summary, "Clinic" is an amateurish film lacking surprise, memorable moments, or any reason for the audience to care. The moments spent on this film feel irretrievable, offering no value in return. It comes across as a project for personal reflection and learning rather than something to be shared with others. If a rating lower than one star were possible, it would be warranted. I strongly advise against watching "Clinic," as it offers little in terms of entertainment or meaningful storytelling.