On March 30, “Wait With Me,” starring Andrew Biernat and Madison Lawlor, premiered on Passionflix, and it is compelling new movie.
Colleen Davie Janes directed this film, and she co-wrote the screenplay with David A. Gregory, which is based on the book “Wait With Me” by Amy Daws.
The synopsis is: When romance novelist Kate Smith suddenly gets writer’s block as she’s beginning the final installment of her international bestselling steamy “Bed ‘n Breakfast” series, she’ll do pretty much anything to get her groove back.
Like sneak into a Tire Depot waiting room because her words flow there just like complimentary coffee-smooth, sweet, and scorching hot. She manages to fly under the radar until the rugged and suave mechanic, Miles Hudson, (Andrew Biernat) notices the quirky redhead slinking in and out of the employees only entrance. She is way too intriguing to blow the whistle on. Doing a test-drive of her new book idea sounds like a much better plan.
It is available on the streaming service Passionflix, where Tosca Musk serves as the co-founder and CEO.
Andrew Biernat and Madison Lawlor have great chemistry together, compliments to the well-written screenplay (by “One Life to Live” alum David A. Gregory and Colleen Davie Janes), where the character development unveils in a steady yet appropriate pace; furthermore, their affecting rapport allows for more resonance. Two-thirds into the film, the viewer has no idea where it is going or how it is going to end, so it will keep the audience stimulated and engaged in their seats.
Madison Lawlor is a revelation in her role as Kate, which she executes in an effervescent fashion. Andrew Biernat is not afraid to be raw, vulnerable, and perplexed in a performance that really runs the gamut. With Biernat, the viewer can recall Nick Bateman meets Joseph Cannata meets Hallmark star Madison Smith (“Nikki & Nora: Sister Sleuths”).
This film underscores such concepts as perception vs. reality, and re-gaining integrity and redemption following a betrayal, and it does so without getting too preachy. It is rich in symbolism if one pays close attention.
The ensemble of actors comprised of Caleb J. Spivak, Jordan Blair Brown, Laith Wallschleger, James Knight, Kelli Therinae and Maryjean Feton are also memorable. Everybody does a solid job in bringing Amy Daws’ bestselling novel to life.
The Verdict
Overall, “Wait With Me” is worth more than just a passing glance. It is perhaps Andrew Biernat’s greatest acting performance in his career, thus far, because it showcases his wide range as an actor, and he appears more comfortable and confident than his prior movies; moreover, it displays his growth and maturity as a storyteller.
This material allows him to sink his teeth, and he layers his emotions well as Miles. Madison Lawlor also nails the complexity of Kate, while also finding the humanity in her. They were both the quintessential leads for a romance movie of this caliber.
Director Colleen Davie Janes deserves to be commended for her clear and concise vision for this project. Also, hopefully, this is a harbinger that there will be more screenplays by David A. Gregory in the future.
“Wait With Me” is a gripping new film on Passionflix and it garners an A- rating.
