Directed by Jerrod Carmichael
Starring Jerrod Carmichael and Christopher Abbott

I begin this review feeling conflicted and, on the fence, as to what my final assessment of this dark comedic drama is, hoping that my next words will bring me closer to a more decisive conclusion.

To have almost the entire film take place over the course of the last day two best friends choose to be alive after committing to their suicide pact by day’s end could be acknowledged as a brave venture, but certainly comes with its risks. There is a lot to applaud in how On the Count of Three addresses the life events that have ultimately led Kevin and Val to this fateful day as they tick items off their improvised bucket list without rules or boundaries. It is also quite admirable to establish an obvious theme and predictable trajectory from early to then realistically cast a cloud of doubt over what will actually eventuate by film’s end. Yet at the same time, when dealing with suicide – a global and completely preventable public health problem that claims 703,000 people every year, one must question what statement on the matter is being said and what message could be derived from it. Especially to those watching who may be vulnerable. This is where I remain unconvinced that On the Count of Three is worthy of recommendation or even an overall good film.

Maybe, hopefully, I can bring you a little closer to making a decision whether or not to add On the Count of Three to your watch list. Fans of American comedian Jerrod Carmichael, co-creator, co-writer, producer, and star of semi-autobiographical sitcom The Carmichael Show I imagine would be curious to see how he handles this precarious premise in his feature film directional debut. That could be one reason. Another might be to discover the source of Kevin’s (Christopher Abbott) pain, trauma and anger that have led him to this day, which he intends to put an end to in more ways than one. As for Jerrod Carmichael’s Val, overwhelming fear, hopelessness, and depression have resulted in him kissing one life goodbye before the long kiss goodnight. While these facets all have their strengths, the measure of this film’s success ultimately hinges on its plot and thematic conclusions. My best assessment while concluding this review – On the Count of Three falters more than it fulfils at its most challenging self-assigned task.

On the Count of Three is showing in selected cinemas across Australia from September 29th.

Moviedoc thanks Umbrella Entertainment for providing a screener link to watch and review this film.

Review by Leigh for Moviedoc

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