The film opens at a networking event, a sort of meet cute, where our couple: David (Stephen Carlile) and Ruby (Amanda Jane Stern) first lay eyes on one another.
Despite a vast age difference, they begin a relationship that spans eight years. When we come to the present, Ruby has just returned to David, where their tumultuous chemistry begins again, and this psychological thriller digs in its heels.
Perfectly Good Moment is a fantastic directorial debut from Lauren Greenhall. It has an admirable confidence and exudes a level of inventiveness and emotional residence that truly is a stand out.
Throughout the film a tense knot builds in your stomach yet the intriguing story dangles its string before you. At any moment, a simple mistake could turn this on its head as anger and obsession balance precariously.
Their toxic relationship is explored in numerous fashions, delivered at different times, all in David’s apartment. Their sexual chemistry is electric but the power dynamics at play ring even stronger, as David’s overbearing presence smothers Ruby, hoping that this time, he will keep her here for good.
This exhaustive bearance is felt through the screen, which is a testament to the performances and the writing. There is a discomforting plea from both sides, one wanting to consume while the other wants to escape. It builds with suspense as you recognize the dangers of the relationship are far more than you first expected, and eventually learn of Ruby’s intention in returning.
With a final act that is both intelligent and creative, we see the truth unveiled and a surprise twist. The script, (written by Amanda Jane Stern and Julian Seltzer) is one of cleverly placed moments and calculated anxiety.
Natural light and targeted hues have some scenes warmed under the guise of a loving relationship before they are stripped away and the cold is felt. It’s mostly relegated to one location which allows the acting and the push and pull of emotions and mental strife to steer the narrative.
Stephen Carlile is remarkable. He hones in on this character, through all of his quirks and cruelties, with conviction. Amanda Jane Stern has a natural charm that she oscillates with an enigmatic allure. You don’t always know what Ruby is thinking, but you want to.
There’s a payoff in the end that feels earned despite the hardships displayed. It’s an hour and twelve minutes and each moment is used efficiently. Some may find the big reveal to come too easily or without enough explanation, and while you may have to suspend some belief, the remainder of the film: taut with genuine suspense, levels it out.
One tiny critique lies particularly in what is left unexplored about the story and the characters’ initial plunge into this suffocating sense of love. Perhaps this omission is intentional, as it is deemed unnecessary for the narrative to feel fulfilled. Overall, this tightly edited and shot thriller plans its omissions properly, and in the end, when the curtain is lifted, it feels cathartic.
Perfectly Good Moment gradually builds and engages with bated breath, effectively locking the audience into this cyclic abusive relationship.
With terrific performances and sharp direction, this indie conveys a lot with a little and shows a promising future for all involved.
Cinematic Lovelies 
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