Almost a Tangent

About This Movie

Almost a Tangent is quite an introspective piece, capturing the existential malaise of a young student, Paul, who feels trapped in a world that doesn't resonate with him. The film unfolds in a somewhat disjointed narrative, blending the mundane—like classroom lessons on WW2—with Paul's vibrant fantasies of space travel, which creates a striking contrast against his somber fate. The pacing is deliberate, almost languid at times, allowing the viewer to seep into the atmosphere of teenage disillusionment. The performances, though understated, carry a heavy weight, pulling you into Paul's turbulent mind. There’s an interesting use of practical effects during his space daydreams, which adds a layer of surrealism that’s hard to shake off. It’s a unique exploration of youthful despair, making it distinctly haunting.

Almost a Tangent has a bit of obscurity around it, which only adds to its allure for collectors. It saw a limited VHS release back in the day and has never been widely circulated since. Various bootlegs float around, but finding a decent print is quite rare. Interest in this title seems to be growing, particularly among fans of 60s drama that delve into darker themes.