Like a number of other films Final Approach uses the flashback as a means of discovery and plot progression, but deviates in that it takes place exclusively in one room, and in the main character's mind. The plus side of this storytelling choice is that it creates a claustrophobic atmosphere that raises the anxiety
level felt by Jason as he tries to make sense of everything. The acting, for the most part, sustains the atmosphere but unfortunately after the final ten minutes of revelation you find the previous two hours were little more than setup. Always waiting in ambush to reveal the final twist the film does nothing to provide meaning beyond "where am I?". Once Jason leaves the office we see that we haven't really learned what it all meant. Why was he the way he was? What was the deal with his dead wife? Did any of that have significance? All we discover is the destination, and nothing about the consequences, which are more important.
September 4, 2009
