The Map of Tiny Perfect Things directed by Ian Samuels is a film that came out in February of this year. The film follows the story of two teens who live the same day over and over again. Mark played by Kyle Allen and Margaret played by Kathryn Newton, live completely separate lives when one day they realize that they are both experiencing the same thing: some sort of anomaly in time. Mark is thrilled to find someone like him, and although a bit weary at first, Margaret agrees that they need each other. The two decide to come together to try to figure out what is happening to them. Along the way they form a relationship while they look for a way out of the anomaly. As they relive the same day over and over again, they begin to see these perfect moments in time and they decide to try to find all of these moments. In the end these “tiny perfect things” are exactly what they need to get out of the anomaly. 

Although at first glance, I assumed that this film would be just like any other cliche young adult movie, it ended up being a really enjoyable watch. I think in large part this can be attributed to the fact that the two main characters are extremely likeable. Mark is a sweet charismatic teen boy. He has a great relationship with his family and he makes the most of his one repeating day. He wakes up each morning hoping that it will be a new day, but it never is; however, he never lets that get him down, he has a super fun personality that makes the audience fall in love with him. Margaret, on the other hand, has more of a pessimistic attitude. She is a loner and she likes it that way. As the film goes on, it is revealed to the audience that her mother dies of cancer on this day, explaining why she doesn’t want the anomaly to end. She doesn’t mind having to relive the same day if it means getting to see her mother one last time.     

The chemistry between Kyle Allen and Kathyrn Newton is undeniable. They work so well together. The pair have a natural and easy going relationship that certainly rubs off onto their respective characters. They both manage to make their characters feel as real as possible and I find that to be crucial. There is nothing worse than watching a film and disliking or not being able to relate to the characters in any way. But in this film, I think most people will be able to find something that resonates with them personally; whether it is related to the personality and humanity of these characters or if it has to do with their fears.

At its core, this film is about the fear of losing something. The fear of losing a loved one, losing one’s innocence or even just losing their happiness. The film aims to push past those fears. It is all about learning to live with your eyes wide open. As Mark learns that you must begin to notice the small things in life and appreciate what you have for as long as you can because it’s not always going to be there. Margaret is willing to do anything to hold onto her mother, but eventually she realizes that she has to keep on living. The relationship between these characters is so pure and real and I love that. They help each other to understand that life moves fast and you have to remember to live it.