“Because of Mika”
NR/Comedy/Drama/95 Mins
Directed by: Paul Santoli
Written by: Paul Santoli & Cooper Tomlinson
Starring: Paul Santoli (“Milk & Serial”), Becky Boggs (“Stream”), Richard Cutting (“Milgram and the Fastwalkers”), Richie Radici (“Max’d Out”), Gerald Comple (“To Shine a Light”), Derek Zugic (“Loan Me a Dime”), Vincent Ticali (“Stolen Dough”)
Review: Well, this film warmed my heart and left a big smile on my face. I also have misty eyes and a sniffling nose… but that is because the room I’m writing this review in is very stuffy. “Because of Mika” is an independent dramedy directed/co-written and starring Paul Santoli as Gino, a 23 year old who works at a pizzeria/drug dealer who is lost in life. Vanessa is also in a similar position, trying to succeed at her job while also dealing with the reappearance of her deadbeat dad who wants to make amends. One day, Gino finds a German Shepherd at a local park laying next to a tag that has the name “Mika” engraved on it. Thinking she’s a lost dog, he takes her home. He quickly learns that this dog isn’t quite ordinary…or even alive. Now, Gino is trying to figure out why he’s being haunted by this canine and how she is the link between Vanessa and himself as well as guiding him to find a better path in life. In result, you have a hilariously heartwarming “tail” about a man and his (ghost) dog.
The star of the film (aside from the adorable Mika) is the creative behind the project, Paul Santoli. From the first few minutes of the film, you’re immediately drawn to his character. He has a likable presence paired with his smart-ass remarks and a “who cares?” attitude made him a character I could relate to. Even when his character can do some things that can make him unlikable, you see that he has heart so you’re rooting for him to pick the right path. Another thing that is notable is the chemistry between Gino and Becky Bogg’s character, Vanessa. At first when they hate each other it’s funny to see them not getting along but when they spend a day in New York together, the sparks really fly and you believe their romance. You know they are going to end up together yet you still root for them.
The unique ensemble of Gino and Vanessa’s family and friends are also really strong. In particular, Andy, Danny and Father Joe. Your heart breaks for Andy, a man who has a troubled past and is trying to make up for his wrongdoings, Richard Cutting gave a vulnerable performance. Danny (Richie Radici), Gino’s best friend and one of the film’s comic relief that has a subplot revealed throughout the film that got some of the biggest laughs. And while Father Joe (Vincent Ticali) only has one scene in the film, he makes the most of his screen time that makes an impact. A small but important part, he gives Gino the advice that helps him start his journey. I also really enjoyed the cameos from Cooper Tomlinson & Sterling L. Pope. Both of these small roles of the night manager and a train conductor don’t move the plot forward but I got a kick out of their brief but hilarious appearances.
Cooper Tomlinson also co-wrote this film with Santoli and his comedic background was evident throughout the film. The tone of a romantic comedy mixed with serious drama was really handled well and was cohesive. One never outweighed the other, it’s a film that can make you laugh and it can make you cry (but not me, remember…stuffy room). I can’t wait to see Santoli’s next project and see what genres he can take on.
I also commend this film from a filmmaking standpoint. I mentioned in previous reviews that I am also an independent filmmaker and I just love seeing another filmmaker make the most of a small budget and working with a crew of family and friends. If you can tell a good story, budget doesn’t matter and “Because of Mika” is a gem of an indie film.
I highly recommend seeking this film out on Prime Video. You get to see a really funny and heartfelt film and you get to support indie filmmakers/cinema, it’s a win-win.
Okay fine…I did cry.
Score: 8/10
WATCH “BECAUSE OF MIKA” ON AMAZON PRIME VIDEO: https://watch.amazon.com/detail?gti=amzn1.dv.gti.2ca636ca-1d58-4cc0-9da0-6d5ae3bd7cde&territory=US&ref_=share_ios_movie&r=web
Also, go follow the filmmaker’s production company, @a516productions (https://www.instagram.com/a516productions?igsh=MTM5b3JxdGt3dmJ1eg==) on Instagram to stay up to date with their latest projects!
