“Very interesting story with intriguing personalities and plot points that speak to various social themes as we are dropped into several conversations taking place within an upscale bar restaurant. Honing in on each pairing of individuals, we discover the purpose of each being there and are along for their individual journeys filled with intersecting people and tales. Characters are interesting and engaging thanks to being well developed on the page and brought to life with nuance in the performances. Listen as Alyssa talks about being an “actor’s director”, casting and rehearsal, and how this script was written by Gary O. Bennett and developed and tailored to specific actors in the story. With visuals as important as the story and acting, Alyssa hones in on the multi-level location and working with her cinematographer Michael Munari, making use of the entire space to provide various POVs with some metaphoric and telling camera angles. And, of course, we also dig into the sound design and undercurrent of a score, and more! Plus, some great tips on distribution and on working with Gravitas Ventures on this film.”

“I adore this film. From the acting to the direction, and the mystery to the brilliant collaboration on all parts, The Arrival hits all the right notes, effectively telling a compelling story from start to [almost] finish...The combination of Director Alyssa Rallo Bennett and this cast is a match made in heaven.”

“Bennett’s picture could be dubbed “The Little Chill”; a comparison to Lawrence Kasdan’s 1983 classic, The Big Chill. In Kasdan’s film, the characters’ worldview has already been discolored and it is their weekend reunion that allows them to reconnect to their true selves. The people who populate the world of The Arrival are on the same life path.

The Arrival is infused with smart dialogue and good performances from its cast. Alice Heber Martin, Peter Bradbury, Nikolas Elrifi, Nick Hamparyan, Vivian Helvajian, Ines Ladha, Pooya Mohseni and Daniela Urdaneta do fine work. Each performer finds an organic creation in their respective portrayals. A good deal of the performers are first-timers on the screen and their work here should allow them long and respectful careers.

The filmmaker has confidence in the drama of the piece and understands the emotional tension comes from the characters and the well-written dialogue. There is no need for directorial flourishes, but this is more than a “filmed play” atmosphere. Through naturally constructed lighting, cinematographer Michael Munari captures the nighttime atmosphere of a sparsely populated bar. Munari’s camera keeps an open-framing style, capturing the performances and allowing the characters to breathe.

The Arrival focuses on those who are moving through their life journeys, seeking self-worth, and looking to define themselves and the world that exists outside of their bubble. The screenplay involves its audience in adult conversations that explore many different layers of the human condition. Bennett paints her film with a sharp analytical edge, showing a compassion for the characters that echoes through every scene. Through a brash honesty, the director has crafted a rewarding filmmaking experience.”

“A handful of people wind up in a Manhattan bar. This isn’t a joke, it’s the concept behind a fresh, original film The Arrival, by Alyssa Rallo Bennett and Gary O. Bennett... What a setup for an interesting couple of hours! And then we fly forward nine months. This quietly powerful outing will get under your skin.”