Watch The Pre-Drink

The Pre-Drink is a 2020 comedy/drama movie directed by Marc-Antoine Lemire and starring Mike Campbell, Jessina Cheffins, and Nick Christie. The film follows four friends - Alex, Jane, Tim, and Cooper - in their mid-twenties as they reunite for a pre-drink party before hitting the club scene in downtown Montreal. Set against the backdrop of the city's vibrant nightlife scene, The Pre-Drink introduces us to a group of friends who are all looking for something different out of their night on the town. Alex (Mike Campbell) is struggling with commitment issues after his recent breakup, while Jane (Jessina Cheffins) is trying to let loose and have some fun after being stuck in a rut at her job. Tim (Nick Christie) is a bit of a wild card, always up for anything, while Cooper (Alex Bisping) is hoping to reconnect with an old flame.

As the night wears on and the drinks start flowing, tensions begin to rise and the group finds themselves grappling with their own personal demons. Alex can't seem to shake his ex-girlfriend, Jane confronts her feelings of inadequacy, Tim gets into a volatile argument with a stranger, and Cooper struggles with the aftermath of his past mistakes.

What sets The Pre-Drink apart from other films in its genre is its realism. The script doesn't try to force any overly dramatic or contrived plot twists - instead, the conflicts that arise between the characters feel authentic and relatable. The dialogue is witty and natural, capturing the essence of the conversations that take place between friends in their twenties.

The film's cinematography is also worth noting - the neon-lit streets of Montreal are captured beautifully, adding to the film's overall atmosphere of youthful energy and excitement. There are also some stunning shots of the city skyline that serve to highlight the film's themes of change and evolution.

The performances by the main cast are excellent across the board. Mike Campbell brings a vulnerability to his portrayal of Alex, making the audience sympathize with his struggles to move on from his past relationship. Jessina Cheffins is equally impressive as Jane, infusing her character with both humor and heart. Nick Christie and Alex Bisping round out the cast nicely, providing some of the film's funniest comedic moments.

One of the strongest aspects of The Pre-Drink is its soundtrack. The film's musical choices are on point, featuring a mix of indie and electronic tracks that perfectly capture the energy of a night out on the town. The music serves to enhance the film's mood and add an extra layer of depth to the onscreen action.

Overall, The Pre-Drink is a refreshing entry into the coming-of-age genre. It's a film that manages to be both funny and poignant, exploring the complexities of friendship, romance, and self-discovery. With its grounded approach to storytelling and strong performances all around, The Pre-Drink is definitely worth checking out for those looking for a smart, engaging movie with something to say about the ups and downs of young adulthood.

The Pre-Drink is a 2019 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.