Lead character "B" (Bobby Del Rio). Image from tiff.net

Written & Directed by: Mio Adilman
Starring: Bobby Del Rio, Jean Yoon, Paul Hyung Sun Lee

“Unlocked” is a dramatic comedy about an average, but nice guy named “B” who is trying to get his life back together after some not-so-happy experiences. However, he has to overcome many obstacles throughout his journey into living and rebuilding a normal life.

This film highlights the difficulties downtown Toronto cyclists face with other fellow cyclists, as opposed to the cars versus bikes dilemma we’re all aware of. It just shows how much integrity and tenacity it takes to be a long-term cyclist. It’s not just about riding a bike in your neighbourhood or park just for fun; neither is cycling simply just a mode of transportation. It is, rather, a type of lifestyle for many in Toronto and especially around the U of T campus.

This film is fun, funny, witty, and even a little bit spiritual, although some may disagree. How must one maintain his momentum and sanity to get through the harsh realities of life? In a way, there’s a little “B” inside all of us. We must learn how to live above ourselves, let go of our egos and walk through the difficult-but-sometimes-sweet journey of life. At the end of the day it’s “A-OK!”

What I like about this film is that such a simple topic as “two wheels” can have so much meaning and depth. I guess it’s just as the saying goes, “less is more.” It is indeed more than one can expect judging from the first thought of the word “bicycle.”

What we may gain from the frustrated cyclist story might be that we must learn how to remain calm and not blow up in times of trouble. Even if we do blow up, we must learn how to admit our own mistakes, and learn from that. We must be able to ask for forgiveness, to forgive and forget, and to even forgive ourselves for our very own wrongdoings, whether knowingly or not. As corny as that may sound, it is true that we must all have a compassionate heart and have love for all humanity, and that is the only way that our species will survive.

“Unlocked” was premiered at TIFF here in Toronto. It was also screened at the Atlantic Film Festival in Halifax, the Vancouver International Film Festival, and several film festivals in the U.S. You can catch the next screening at the Toronto Reel Asian Film Festival, right here on campus on November 14.

As a side note, here’s a little video from the Toronto Cyclists Union showing appreciation towards drivers for their efforts in helping keep Toronto cyclists safe.

This entry was posted on Monday, October 26th, 2009 at 11:00 am and is filed under Arts, Entertainment, Events, Film, On Campus, Review, TIFF 2009. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.