Anna Cinzia Dellagiacoma reviews Second Chance, the directorial debut of Dublin-based musician Joe Chad
Second Chance is the first film by Dublin-based hip-hop musician Joe Chad, in collaboration with actor and screenwriter Izii Monet. They present a modern tale investigating the varied relationships that can result from the interaction of love, abuse and regret.
The story is told like a diary, or better yet, a self-confession. Vincent (Ngalinda John) is retracing the path that has led him to a point where he is suffering so much, nothing is of importance to him. Through flashbacks he recounts his experience, from the day he abused his ex-girlfriend to the moment he realises he loves her and wants her back.
A key role in the story is played by Peter (Monet), an old man who crosses Vincent’s path. The meeting happens by chance, but the old man seems sent by fate. With his advice, he helps Vincent understand what is really important in life: to have the right woman by your side. From this moment on, the suspense grows till Vincent will know whether he will be given his second chance.
As a first effort in film production, Chad is headed in the right direction. The story is gripping, albeit a bit far-fetched in some parts, and the story’s multiple puzzle pieces fit well together. The music, too, flows in accordance with the story and keeps the rhythm punchy, helping maintain the tension (that’s not surprising given Chad’s musical pedigree).
However, some obvious mistakes will do to be avoided next time. The anachronisms are hard to ignore: young people didn’t have mobile phones in the 1980s, let alone such small ones. And every now and then the camera’s shadow creeps into the frame.
But still, considering the minimum budget and lack of prior experience, the effort made by Chad and Monet is impressive. Second Chance is a compelling story with a moral fully conveyed, even if not universally accepted.
Anna Cinzia Dellagiacoma is an intern with Metro Éireann.
