Watch Wild Canaries

Wild Canaries is a 2014 independent film directed by Lawrence Michael Levine, who also stars in the movie as the lead protagonist alongside Sophia Takal, who plays his girlfriend, and Alia Shawkat, who portrays their close friend. The movie falls under the genre of a mystery/drama, with a touch of romantic comedy. The plot revolves around Noah (Levine) and his girlfriend Barri (Takal), who live in a Brooklyn apartment building. Their peaceful lives are interrupted when their elderly next-door neighbor dies under suspicious circumstances. At first, they assume that it was due to natural causes, but when they discover a note left by the old woman, they begin to suspect that she may have been murdered. With the help of their friend Jean (Shawkat), they embark on a quest to unravel the mystery surrounding their neighbor's death.

The movie takes a lighthearted approach to the usual crime-solving drama. There are humorous moments, and the characters are relatable, making the audience root for them throughout the film. The setting of the movie in the city of Brooklyn adds to the vibe of the movie, with its colorful surroundings and bustling city life.

The chemistry between the lead actors, Sophia Takal and Lawrence Michael Levine, is excellent. Their characters' relationship is fun to watch, as they bicker and tease each other like any normal couple. Takal brings a refreshing portrayal of Barri by playing a strong, independent woman who is not afraid to take charge while also revealing her vulnerable side. Levine, on the other hand, brings a more relaxed, laid-back approach to the role of Noah, which offsets Barri's sometimes intense manner. The two characters balance each other out to create a perfect on-screen chemistry.

Alia Shawkat's portrayal of Jean is another standout performance in Wild Canaries. Her character is the perfect balance between the other two - sassy, independent, and always up for some fun. She shares a great rapport with the other actors, especially Takal.

The movie also boasts a talented cast of supporting actors who bring their unique voices to the film. Annie Parisse plays Noah's estranged former flame, who adds to the tension in the movie. Jason Ritter plays the building's caretaker, who is viewed as a possible suspect in the investigation. Kevin Corrigan also appears in the movie as a private investigator hired by the trio to solve the case.

Another aspect of the movie that stands out is the exceptional cinematography in the film. The movie is filmed in a style reminiscent of classic noir films, with dark shots and intriguing camera angles. The pacing of the movie is well balanced, with just the right amount of action and suspense to keep the audience hooked.

The film's soundtrack is also a highlight, featuring an eclectic mix of indie music, which adds to the movie's overall vibe. The music is well-placed and complements each scene.

Overall, Wild Canaries is an enjoyable movie that is worth watching. The combination of humor, romance, and suspense makes it a multifaceted watch. The portrayal of flawed, relatable characters in a vibrant Brooklyn backdrop coupled with the film's refreshingly different directing style makes it a standout independent film. It's a movie that stands out in its whimsical approach to crime-solving, romance, and friendship.

Wild Canaries is a 2015 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0 and a MetaScore of 67.