Chronically Metropolitan (Movie)

Title — Chronically Metropolitan
Available on — Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, Movies Anywhere
Production Country — United States
Release Date — 2016
A case of writer’s block inspires a young novelist to return home to New York City and reconnect with his engaged ex and his bohemian parents.

🪶 Story & Synopsis

In the 2016 American comedy-drama film “Chronically Metropolitan,” directed by Xavier Manrique and written by Nicholas Schutt, viewers are taken on a journey with first-time novelist Fenton Dillane as he returns unannounced to New York City. Fenton’s motive? To win back his lost love, Jessie, who he discovers is now engaged. Unbeknownst to him, his actions set off a chain of events that impact the lives of those around him.

Upon his return, Fenton enlists the help of his headstrong sister, Layla, and his drug-dealing best friend in a bid to win Jessie back. As the plot unfolds, viewers witness the repercussions of Fenton’s impulsive decisions, both for himself and the people in his inner circle. The film captures the essence of a cynical and clever coming-of-age story, showcasing the complexities of relationships and the consequences of chasing lost love.

“Chronically Metropolitan” delves into the dynamics of family, friendship, and love, offering a glimpse into the lives of high-income characters navigating low-stakes situations. The film skillfully weaves together moments of humor and drama, providing a nuanced portrayal of Fenton’s journey as he confronts his past and grapples with his present reality.

With a talented ensemble cast including Ashley Benson, the movie shines in its portrayal of authentic emotions and relatable experiences. Through Fenton’s quest to reclaim his past, the audience is taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, witnessing the characters evolve and grow amidst the backdrop of New York City.

“Chronically Metropolitan” is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and self-discovery, offering a fresh perspective on the complexities of human relationships and the enduring quest for connection. As Fenton navigates the challenges of his past and present, the film invites viewers to reflect on their own journeys of growth and transformation, making it a compelling watch for audiences seeking a blend of wit, heart, and authenticity in storytelling.

🧑 Cast & Crew

Shiloh Fernandez, Ashley Benson, Josh Peck, Addison Timlin, Chris Noth, Mary-Louise Parker

Actor Role
Shiloh Fernandez Fenton
Ashley Benson Jessie
Addison Timlin Layla
Mary-Louise Parker Annabel
Chris Noth Christopher
Josh Peck John

💬 Reviews and feedback

Are you ready to dive into the world of high-income characters navigating low-stakes situations? Imagine a blend of drama, comedy, and a sprinkle of pretentiousness all set against the backdrop of Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Welcome to the rollercoaster ride that is “Chronically Metropolitan”!

Picture this: a first-time novelist named Fenton Dillane decides to shake things up by making an unexpected return to his roots in New York City. His mission? To confront his family and perhaps rekindle a lost flame. But as the story unfolds, you’ll find yourself immersed in a whirlwind of cynicism, clever wit, and a dash of coming-of-age charm.

Now, let’s dissect this cinematic gem from various angles starting with the plot. While some may argue that the storyline feels slight and underdeveloped, failing to sustain interest throughout its relatively short runtime, there’s still something oddly refreshing about its take on the life of the privileged Upper East Siders.

Speaking of characters, our hero Fenton Dillane portrayed by Shiloh Fernandez brings just the right amount of brooding intensity to the screen. His journey from afar back to the bustling city streets is filled with moments that will make you both cringe and cheer for this flawed protagonist.

Now onto the technical aspects! The cinematography captures the essence of Manhattan beautifully, showcasing both its glamorous facade and hidden depths. The production design immerses you in a world where every detail speaks volumes about the characters’ lives and their inner struggles.

But let’s not forget about the dialogue! While some may find it pretentious at times, there’s a certain charm in how words are woven together to create moments of introspection and revelation.

As for special effects and editing, “Chronically Metropolitan” keeps it simple yet effective, focusing more on raw emotions rather than flashy visuals. This minimalist approach adds to the movie’s authenticity and genuine portrayal of human relationships.

Now, if you’re looking for fast-paced action or mind-bending twists, this might not be your cup of tea. But if you’re up for a reflective journey through the lives of flawed characters trying to find their place in an unforgiving world, then buckle up for an emotional rollercoaster ride!

Binge-watching Tips:

  • Pay attention to subtle character nuances that reveal deeper layers beneath their privileged facade.
  • Take note of how New York City is portrayed as both a glamorous backdrop and a harsh reality check for our characters.
  • Appreciate the moments of silence as much as the dialogues; sometimes what is left unsaid speaks volumes.

So, dear reader, are you ready to explore the tangled web of relationships, aspirations, and self-discovery in “Chronically Metropolitan”? Strap in for a bumpy yet intriguing ride through Manhattan’s elite social circles!

In conclusion, while some may find this film lacking in certain aspects, there’s still something captivating about its unapologetic portrayal of flawed characters trying to navigate life’s complexities. So grab your popcorn, settle in comfortably on your couch, and let “Chronically Metropolitan” take you on a heartfelt journey through love, loss, and everything in between.

Ratings: 7/10

Pros Cons
Realistic portrayal of privileged UES life Storyline feels underdeveloped
Honest and refreshing look at privileged lifestyle Plot is boring and tedious
Cynical and clever coming-of-age theme Camera work is plain and uneventful
Good performance by lead actor Shiloh Fernandez Little to cheer in the family drama
Short running time Predictable shenanigans in the storyline

Feedback

  • Chronically Metropolitan (2016) - IMDb

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    Details

    • Release date
    • Country of origin
    • Official site
    • Languages
    • Also known as
      • Kronik Büyükşehirli
    • Filming locations
    • Production companies
    • See more company credits at IMDbPro
    • Runtime1 hour 30 minutes
    • Color
    • Aspect ratio
      • 21:9

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    Suggest an edit or add missing contentTop GapBy what name was Chronically Metropolitan (2016) officially released in Canada in English?Answer

  • Chronically Metropolitan - Wikipedia

    Chronically Metropolitanis a 2016 American comedy-drama film directed by Xavier Manrique and written by Nicholas Schutt. The film stars Ashley Benson, Shiloh Fernandez, Addison Timlin, Mary-Louise Parker and Chris Noth. Filming began on February 23, 2015, in New York City.

  • Chronically Metropolitan (2016) - Plot - IMDb

    • A cynical and clever coming-of-age film about first-time novelist Fenton Dillane, who returns to New York City unannounced to confront his family, his ex-girlfriend, and a few lingering childhood fears.
    • Full of wry wit, Chronically Metropolitan, is a cynical family drama about a young writer, Fenton, who is forced home to help the family cope when his larger than life father, Christopher, gets into a car accident with a truck full of crabs.
    • Fenton Dillane, the son of acclaimed novelist and now English professor Christopher Dillane, is a writer in his own right. Without a word, Fenton abruptly left his New York City home to live in San Francisco following the publication of “The Birthday Party” in the New Yorker, it a short story and his first published work. That departure was due to the consequences of the story itself, it deemed fiction but the characters who were manifestations of people around him, it which exacerbated the disintegration of the marriage of his then girlfriend Jessie’s parents, Jessie an aspiring photographer. Just over one year later, Fenton, again without a word to anyone, heads back to New York City for the first time upon the news of a salacious incident involving his father belying his pristine public image, that incident which resulted in Chris being hospitalized. The marriage of Fenton’s parents has long been in name only, Chris not wanting a divorce if only to maintain some stability in their lives. While the incident that landed Chris in the hospital is only the tip of the iceberg of his life, Fenton’s mother, Annabel Dillane, copes with the therapeutic help of Fenton’s childhood friend, John Roth, and a new relationship with Ahmed Hosseini. Upon seeing Jessie, Fenton admits to himself that he still has feelings for her. Problems for Fenton with regard to reuniting with Jessie are that although she could defend the story, she felt abandoned when he left, and that she is scheduled to get married in one week’s time to Victor, the wealthy and high powered owner of the contemporary art gallery where she currently works.—Huggo

    It looks like we don’t have any synopsis for this title yet. Be the first to contribute.Learn more

⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)

The movie “Chronically Metropolitan” directed by Xavier Manrique is an independent coming-of-age drama that delves into the life of Fenton Dillane, played by Shiloh Fernandez. The film opens with Fenton’s return to New York City after a self-imposed exile, prompted by a controversial story he wrote that closely mirrored his girlfriend’s family. The narrative follows Fenton as he navigates his family’s dysfunction, tries to mend his past relationships, and confronts the consequences of his actions.

The cast includes notable actors like Mary-Louise Parker as Fenton’s mother Anabelle, Addison Timlin as his sister Layla, and Josh Peck as his best friend John. The dynamics within Fenton’s family are strained, with his mother turning to marijuana to cope with her marital issues, and his friend John harboring feelings for his sister. The story also touches on Fenton’s father’s accident, drawing parallels between their struggles and the impact of their actions on their loved ones.

One of the central themes of the film is the idea that writers often draw inspiration from their own lives, leading to conflicts when their work reflects personal relationships. The movie explores the consequences of selfishness and the complexities of familial bonds. As Fenton tries to reconcile with his past and make amends, the narrative unfolds with a mix of cynicism and emotional depth.

While “Chronically Metropolitan” sets up an intriguing premise with its character dynamics and thematic exploration, some critics note that the film falls short in fully developing its characters and storyline. The family drama at the core of the movie sometimes feels stagnant and lacks the depth needed to fully engage the audience. However, as the narrative progresses, the initial stiffness gives way to a more nuanced portrayal of the characters and their struggles.

In conclusion, “Chronically Metropolitan” offers a glimpse into the complexities of personal relationships, the consequences of creative expression, and the challenges of self-discovery. With a talented cast and a contemplative tone, the film presents a thought-provoking take on coming-of-age themes within the backdrop of New York City’s bustling streets.

👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating

TV-MA

Age Rating:

Chronically Metropolitan (2016) is not rated by the Motion Picture Association (MPAA), but based on the content of the movie, it would likely receive an R rating.

Parental Guide:

Chronically Metropolitan contains content that may not be suitable for all viewers, especially younger audiences. Here is a detailed breakdown of the potentially objectionable content:

Sex & Nudity
  • The movie includes sexual references and implications throughout.
  • There are scenes depicting intimacy, but without explicit nudity.
Violence & Gore
  • There are instances of verbal and emotional conflict between characters.
  • Some scenes may include mild violence, such as arguments and confrontations.
Profanity
  • Strong language is used throughout the movie, including profanities and crude dialogue.

Considering the above content, Chronically Metropolitan is recommended for mature audiences, ideally adults and older teenagers who can understand and process the themes presented in the film.

📺 Streaming and where to watch

streaming service extra information
Netflix Available to watch on Netflix. Genres: Comedies, Dramas, Independent Movies.
Prime Video Available to watch on Prime Video – amazon.com
Apple TV Available to watch on Apple TV. Genre: Drama 2017. Starring Shiloh Fernandez, Chris Noth, Victor Cruz.
Google Play Available to rent or buy on Google Play Movies.
Movies Anywhere Purchase and stream instantly on Movies Anywhere. Genre: Drama.

❝ Quotes and Cult

  • A cynical and clever coming-of-age film about first-time novelist Fenton Dillane, who returns to New York City unannounced to confront his family, his ex-girlfriend, and a few lingering childhood fears.
  • Chronically Metropolitan is the first feature film by Xavier Manrique, a mentee of David Frankel, with a screenplay by Nicholas Schutt.
    Nick Davis
  • Full of wry wit, Chronically Metropolitan, is a cynical family drama about a young writer, Fenton, who is forced home to help the family cope.

🤖Chronically Metropolitan Reddit Talks

Chronically Metropolitan (2016), a film by Xavier Manrique, is a coming-of-age story about Fenton Dillane, a cynical and clever first-time novelist who returns to New York City unannounced to confront his family.

The film has been praised for its witty dialogue and its realistic portrayal of the lives of young people in New York City. However, it has also been criticized for its lack of focus and its sometimes pretentious tone.

Dialogue and Characters

One of the most striking things about Chronically Metropolitan is its dialogue. The film is full of long, witty conversations that explore the characters’ relationships and their views on life. The dialogue is often very funny, but it also has a serious side, as the characters grapple with issues such as love, loss, and the meaning of life.

The characters in Chronically Metropolitan are all well-developed and complex. Fenton is a charming and intelligent but also arrogant and self-destructive. His sister, Chloe, is a successful artist who is struggling to come to terms with her own mortality. Their parents are wealthy and successful, but they are also deeply unhappy.

Themes

Chronically Metropolitan explores a number of themes, including the difficulty of growing up, the importance of family, and the search for meaning in life. Fenton is a character who is struggling to find his place in the world. He is intelligent and ambitious, but he is also lost and unsure of what he wants to do with his life. His journey of self-discovery is at the heart of the film.

Reception

Chronically Metropolitan has received mixed reviews from critics. Some have praised the film’s dialogue and characters, while others have criticized its lack of focus and its sometimes pretentious tone. However, the film has been a hit with audiences, who have praised its wit and its realistic portrayal of the lives of young people in New York City.

Overall

Chronically Metropolitan is a well-made and thought-provoking film that explores a number of important themes. The film’s dialogue is witty and intelligent, and the characters are well-developed and complex. However, the film’s lack of focus and its sometimes pretentious tone may put some viewers off. Overall, Chronically Metropolitan is a film that is worth watching, but it is not for everyone.

Top discussions

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Where was Chronically Metropolitan filmed?

Filming for Chronically Metropolitan took place in New York City. Actors were first spotted filming around Manhattan, and later, filming continued on location in Brooklyn.

What is the movie “Chronically Metropolitan” about?

“Chronically Metropolitan” is a 2016 American comedy-drama film directed by Xavier Manrique. The story follows first-time novelist Fenton Dillane, who returns to New York City unannounced to confront his family and win back his lost love, Jessie, who is unknowingly engaged to be married. His actions set off a series of events that impact everyone around him.

How did critics respond to “Chronically Metropolitan”?

On the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, “Chronically Metropolitan” has a rating of 40% based on 10 reviews with an average rating of 6.12/10. Critics have described the film as feeling slight, underdeveloped, and failing to sustain interest despite its short running time.

Who are some of the main cast members of “Chronically Metropolitan”?

The cast of Chronically Metropolitan includes Shiloh Fernandez as Fenton, Ashley Benson as Jessie, Addison Timlin as Layla, Chris Noth as Christopher, and Mary-Louise Parker as Annabel, among others.

What is the main storyline of “Chronically Metropolitan”?

In “Chronically Metropolitan,” Fenton Dillane, a first-time novelist, returns to New York City unexpectedly to win back his lost love, Jessie. Unaware that she is engaged, Fenton seeks help from his sister and best friend, leading to a chain of events that affect everyone involved.

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