'The Map Of Tiny Perfect Things' A Review

The Map Of Tiny Perfect Things is a time-loop dramedy that follows Mark(Kyle Allen) a high schooler stuck repeating a summer day in his affable suburban town. After(presumably) years in the loop where he diverts himself doing random activities he meets Margaret(Kathryn Newton) who's also stuck in the loop and the two become friends as they search out and map fleeting perfect moments in their town.

Allen is refreshingly devoid of ennui or edge. He's an every-kid with seemingly little to no baggage beyond the normal low grade self centeredness his age typically prescribes and has a mature and positive outlook on the world and the loop. Newton also is not flawed, neither character is in the loop to "become a better person", she has dimension and something that weighs on her that she doesn't immediately reveal to Mark but that subtle mystery is what the film is really about. The two have wonderful chemistry, light and impactful, emotional without being overwrought or heavy. The supporting cast, essentially repeating their various performances in different ways, are all wonderful if not super detrimental to the plot as the main focus is, justly, on the two leads.

Some sharp editing and mild CGI pair well to convey the timeloop and keep the momentum of the day constantly pushing forward. The soundtrack is effective but not obtrusive and the modern/retro production design and costuming make for a a familiar setting that doesn't lock in to a specific year(although there is the mild use of phones). What's so gratifying about the film is it's simplicity and it's focus, the two leads aren't tortured, their complicated kids in a weird situation trying to figure it out, but the loop doesn't function to transform their character. They spend their time seeking out these simple beautiful moments which are shown with patience and are just as much a part of the theme as what's going on with the characters. It has a message but plenty of levity.

A fresh, understated take on the timeloop that focuses on positivity and small things to effectively demonstrate some larger powerful ideas, also has plenty of laughs.

Currently streaming on Amazon.

 See It.