Poolman doesn't solidify. The thin plot is a framework for its characters and messages. Its protagonist reflects themes of preservation, stagnation, and identity. While the arc attempts to punctuate all this, the absurd emotions and rambling mystery are difficult to invest in. This is all an intentional anti-joke (a "Shaggy-dog story") but that's rarely clear enough, especially for wider audiences. Consequently, the narrative is frustrating, the drama feels awkward, and the meaning is easy to miss. Plus, the acting's adequate commitment, delivery, and chemistry are undermined by the jumbled material. Overall, Poolman lacks the precision for its extremely specific goals.
Technically, Poolman misaligns stylish ingredients. Its noir, stoner comedy, and social commentary tones mostly clash. The cinematography uses angles, composition, and lighting with sporadic motivation. Its meandering editing has pops of surrealism. The primarily straightforward sound adds brief distortions, voiceovers, and smash cuts. Its music is fairly eclectic, diegetically motivated, and homages the genre. The production design offers desaturated colors, a strong sense of LA, characterization, and romantic subjectivity. Its cast's talent and fame are underutilized. The effects are minimal and ancillary. Ultimately, Poolman is an oddly artsy yet alienating miss.
Writing: 4/10
Direction: 4/10
Cinematography: 6/10
Acting: 6/10
Editing: 5/10
Sound: 6/10
Score/Soundtrack: 7/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 5/10
Overall Score: 5.9/10
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