Happy New Year, Colin Burstead 2018

Art & Craft

In terms of art and craft, the film employs a handheld aesthetic that some reviewers find compelling, yet others describe the cinematography as jittery and distracting. The visual approach aligns with an experimental, Dogme-inspired sensibility, but the execution is seen as inconsistent. Consequently, the technical execution is judged as uneven, resulting in a moderate overall assessment.

Character & Emotion

When evaluating character and emotion, performances receive notable praise, particularly from Neil Maskell and Sam Riley, with critics highlighting strong ensemble chemistry. However, some critics argue that characterizations remain thin and lack depth. The balance of commendation for acting against remarks of superficiality leads to a generally positive but not uniformly high rating for this aspect.

Story & Flow

Regarding story and flow, the film is recognized for its comedic premise and realistic family dynamics, offering moments of originality. Yet, several reviewers point to a fragmented plot, slow pacing, and a lack of memorable direction. This mixture of engaging ideas and structural weaknesses produces a middling evaluation of the narrative component.

Sensory Experience

The sensory experience combines an intentional hand‑held visual style with a modest sound design that supports the film's informal tone. While some critics appreciate the naturalistic look, others find the cinematography overly jittery, detracting from cohesion. The divided responses to visual and auditory elements result in an average sensory rating.

Rewatch Factor

Rewatch factor is tempered by the film's polarizing elements; enthusiastic viewers express a desire to revisit the dialogue and performances, whereas others cite pacing and thematic repetition as deterrents. The overall inclination suggests modest replay value, especially for audiences who favor its experimental approach.