Watch John's Gone

John's Gone is a 2010 independent film directed by Josh Mitchell and stars Benny Safdie in the titular role as a man who has recently left a psychiatric hospital. The movie follows John on his journey through the city of Los Angeles as he tries to connect with people and make sense of his own disordered thoughts. At the outset of the film, John is wandering the streets aimlessly, unsure of where to go or what to do. He is stopped by a group of young men who taunt him and demand his money, but John is able to escape and eventually makes his way to a diner where he meets a waitress named Amy (played by Amy Seimetz). Amy senses that John is in distress and offers to help him, but John is hesitant to accept her assistance.

Over the course of the film, John encounters a variety of other characters, including an eccentric landlord (played by the director, Josh Mitchell), a prostitute (played by Kristin Slaysman), and a musician named Dave (played by Eric Cheung). Through these interactions, we learn more about John's past and the events that led him to the hospital.

One of the key themes of the movie is the idea of connection and alienation. John is clearly struggling to connect with others, and his erratic behavior often makes him seem dangerous or unpredictable. This is particularly evident in his interactions with Dave, who is initially wary of John but gradually comes to see him as a kindred spirit. As they wander the city together, they converse about music, art, and their shared sense of isolation.

The film is shot in a gritty, handheld style that gives it a raw, documentary-like feel. The camera often lingers on John's face, allowing us to see the turmoil and confusion behind his eyes. The sound design is also noteworthy, with a dissonant, jarring score that ramps up the tension and unease of certain scenes.

Despite its dark themes and low budget, John's Gone is a compelling and well-crafted film that tackles important issues around mental health, isolation, and community. It's a challenging and thought-provoking movie that is sure to leave an impression on viewers who are able to connect with its characters and themes.