Stacie Mistysyn shines as Kim, a multifaceted air traffic controller who leads a double life as the frontwoman of an indie rock band. The film cleverly opens with Kim’s rock ‘n’ roll cover of “Breaking The Law” by Judas Priest in a seedy nightclub, foreshadowing a tantalizing glimpse of what lies ahead. It is during this performance that we first encounter a dubious-looking man in the audience, who turns out to be Kim’s lover, Charlie, portrayed brilliantly by David La Haye. Charlie is trouble waiting to happen, and one can’t help but be drawn to see what turmoil he stirs into each scene. Mistysyn and La Haye have captivating chemistry, making it thrilling to see them together, especially in the first act before Charlie’s secrets are unveiled.
Kim also has a husband, Jeff, who is a cop initially oblivious to her affair. Bruce Dinsmore delivers an expert portrayal of Jeff, a character who at first appears plain and unremarkable. Kim’s need for an escape from her marriage becomes evident, especially following a traumatic incident at her workplace. Charlie extends a tempting offer to help her break free from the harsh realities of life and even proposes to work for him in real estate. However, all may not be as it seems with Charlie, and cracks in his facade begin to surface. As the narrative unfolds and the layers of deception surrounding Charlie intensify, will Jeff ultimately prove to be the husband Kim has been seeking?
Charlie Tango takes its time building the intricate cat-and-mouse dynamic between Charlie, Kim, and Jeff. Yet, I found the first act riveting, thanks to a heart-pounding inciting incident involving a plane crash that immediately drew me into the story. The supporting cast is also excellent, Marcel Jeannin, Peter Miller, Genevieve StLouis and Diana Lewis (a frequent collaborator with Boisvert), who plays a very quirky Tonya. Alexandre Bussière's cinematography skillfully complements the narrative, while Oliver Palotai's music adds depth to the film. Boisvert's distinct directing style imbues Charlie Tango with its unique tone, allowing comedic moments and the intricate storyline to dazzle.
After two decades of making indie films, Boisvert’s style has evolved into something unique and captivating, and Charlie Tango is a testament to his growth as a filmmaker. With its thrilling plot, outstanding performances, and skillful cinematography and music, this film proves that Boisvert’s storytelling prowess has reached new heights. Charlie Tango is a must-see for both longtime fans and newcomers to Boisvert’s films.
