Watch The Life Before This

The Life Before This is a 1999 Canadian drama film that explores the lives of several individuals whose paths cross in the most unexpected ways. The movie is directed by Jerry Ciccoritti and stars an impressive cast including Catherine O'Hara, Joe Pantoliano, and Sarah Polley. The plot of the movie revolves around the intersecting lives of a group of strangers who are all present in a Toronto coffee shop minutes before a deadly armed robbery takes place. The film follows the stories of these individuals in the hours leading up to the robbery, exploring themes of fate, chance, and the interconnectedness of human lives.

Catherine O'Hara plays Carol, a middle-aged waitress who works in the coffee shop. She is dealing with her own problems, including a strained relationship with her daughter, and is desperately trying to turn her life around. Joe Pantoliano plays Brian, a recovering alcoholic who is desperate to reconnect with his estranged wife and child. Sarah Polley plays Connie, a troubled teenager who is struggling with her own demons.

The story also follows the lives of other coffee shop patrons, including a high school student who is dealing with his own identity crisis, a young couple struggling to make ends meet, and a man planning a robbery.

As the day progresses, each character's story unfolds and we begin to see how their lives are intertwined. The Life Before This is a slow-burn drama that delves into the complexities of human relationships and feelings of isolation in a bustling city. The film uses a nonlinear structure to tell its story, keeping viewers engaged as they try to piece together the events leading up to the robbery.

One of the strengths of the film is its impressive ensemble cast, who all give powerful performances. Particularly notable is Catherine O'Hara, who brings depth and nuance to her portrayal of Carol. Joe Pantoliano also shines as Brian, bringing a vulnerability and complexity to his character's struggles.

The film's cinematography is also worth mentioning. The coffee shop setting is captured in a way that feels authentic, with the cramped space and dim lighting adding to the film's sense of tension and unease. The camera work, too, is impressive, with the film using a variety of techniques to create a sense of movement and energy.

Overall, The Life Before This is a poignant and thought-provoking drama that explores the complexities of human relationships and the unexpected ways in which they intersect. The film may be slow-paced, but it rewards patient viewers with a rich and nuanced exploration of its characters' lives.