Stuck Between Stations - A Movie Review

Are we just going to be friends tonight?

Stuck Between Stations is a 2011 film about two former high school classmates who reunite by chance. Instead of going their own ways, they decide to stick together for one night of reminiscing.

You can do anything with a concept that takes place in one day. Stuck Between Stations is yet another underrated film with a meaningful lesson. Life after high school is a weird time, asking yourself, ‘What now?’ Through conversations and the character's night of travels, Stuck Between Stations depicts how we can pick up the pieces and start fresh.

Sam Rosen and Zoe Lister-Jones star as Casper and Becky, two old high school friends who reunite after a decade. I first saw Zoe Lister-Jones in Band-Aid, a film she directed and starred in. I have not seen Rosen in other media, but I was impressed with his talented dramatic skills. Rosen and Lister-Jones developed fantastic chemistry and had fun.

Rosen and Lister-Jones are excellent with the build-up of their stories. Casper and Becky think they’re not easy to figure out, but realize they’re running from their fears. Casper throws his vulnerabilities in the trash, and Becky holds her own. They’re holding so much in. Little do they realize how they want to feel understood.

Do you ever want to re-meet someone? High school is an important time that some people want to relive the memories or forget entirely. We’re starting to grow in high school. Does who we are in high school reflect how we are after?

Casper and Becky travel to several destinations around the city in the course of one night. They also come across some familiar faces or strangers. Supporting characters are so important in these films as they reflect the protagonists' personalities.

Credits include Michael Imperioli, Josh Hartnett, Nadia Dajani, Christiana Clark, and more small roles. It doesn’t matter how small your role is. Every actor studied their characters, relationships to the main characters, and made an impact.

The narrative structure of Stuck Between Stations is reminiscent of Before Sunrise. Brady Kiernan’s direction brings a subtle yet impactful touch to this film. This film’s title alludes to a couple of meanings, like feeling stuck in life. I interpreted it as characters traveling by train all night. Movies always have a way of surprising you.

The dialogue is the most important part of the film. It’s how the characters figure each other out. The conversations feel realistic. Locations also play an important role. Filming took place in Minneapolis.

Casper and Becky wander the busy streets, stop at their homes, and play basketball with a crumpled piece of paper at a playground - all at nighttime. This element also adds depth. Life at nighttime as a total contrast to daytime.

I liked the film’s unique editing style. If the characters ever separated, a frame divides their journeys. Or the other frame illustrated a landscape as the characters walked around the city. It's always a good idea to experiment with edits.

Stuck Between Stations is a coming-of-age story. Brady Kieran connected with audiences about a subject that most people in their 20s can relate to. No matter how old we are, we’re still growing and trying to figure ourselves out.

Our 20s are a challenging time, no matter what anyone says. Friendship is another theme. You can remain friends and stay in touch with high school friends, but it’s important to make new connections.

Stuck Between Stations is a deep film, helping you reflect on your own life. Check out the film because it’s heartwarming and enjoyable.