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what happened was… (1994) ?

What Happened Was… (1994): An Unwritten Narrative of Love and Disappointment

In the mosaic of cinema from the 1990s, a film like “What Happened Was…” (1994) might easily get lost among the most celebrated blockbusters and award winners. Directed by Tom Noonan, this independent drama might have taken a niche position in the film world but remains a remarkable exploration of human interaction and romantic misunderstanding. What Happened Was… is a rare gem with a peculiar, almost surreal narrative that captures the intricacies of human emotion through the lens of its two main characters.

The film follows Jackie and Michael, played by Karen Sillas and Tom Noonan, as they navigate the murky waters of a floundering relationship that evolves from workplace collaboration into a date of sorts, set against the backdrop of a law firm setting. The premise is simple, focusing on a single night where the intentions of the two characters waver between friendship, work companionship, and possibly something else. Yet, the execution of the screenplay, adapted from Noonan’s stage play, is far from straightforward, delving into layers of ambiguity that leave a lot for the audience to interpret.

This film is a stark contrast to the events of 1994, a year marked by significant political, cultural, and historical turmoil, which saw the signing of the assault weapons ban, the historic election of Nelson Mandela, and the devastating Rwandan genocide. Within this context, the movie becomes a quaint snapshot, both reflective of the era and detached from the larger issues of the day. It presents intimate human drama rather than grand historical narratives, focusing instead on the smaller stakes that nevertheless resonate profoundly.

On the aesthetic and thematic level, “What Happened Was…” offers a minimalist, intimate narrative cinema. Its structure doesn’t adhere to traditional storytelling formats but rather embraces a nonlinear, sometimes dreamlike quality, which challenges viewers to engage actively with the content. This approach mirrors the uncertainty of a relationship, where understanding and anticipation dance in a constant state of flux.

The year 1994 was also a high watermark for independent films, with other notable releases like “Pulp Fiction,” “Leaving Las Vegas,” and “The Shawshank Redemption.” What Happened Was… positioned itself within this era, albeit with a unique voice. Unlike those aforementioned blockbusters known for their plot twists and genre-blending flair, “What Happened Was…” quietly dissects one moment in two lives, engaging in introspection and the unspoken misunderstandings between people. It reminds viewers that within the larger fabric of societal change and events, there are countless individual narratives on a smaller scale that shape our understanding of human relationships.

To revisit “What Happened Was…” is to look at the subtleties of human interaction through the lens of Tom Noonan’s nuanced direction and writing. Now considered an independent cinema classic, the film encapsulates the era it was created in without being overshadowed by it. It is a testament to the power of small cinema to explore deep questions about human connection and emotional nuance without resorting to the grandeur of epic storytelling.

In conclusion, “What Happened Was…” (1994) challenges viewers to consider the micro-narratives of life, the often unspoken and unwritten narratives that define our everyday interactions. Within a shifting movie landscape and against the backdrop of a significant year, “What Happened Was…” quietly makes a lasting impression, a gem that invites a reevaluation of its singular plot and what it holds in common with the large narratives of life.

At the heart of cinema’s myriad narratives, “What Happened Was…” stands as a quiet, pensive meditation. It reminds us of the importance of looking closely at what passes for everyday life, revealing the complex layers of human behavior and the elusive, unspoken undercurrents that define our lives.