Name: No Precedence
Genre: Mystery
Released: 2011-03-25
Duration: 1 h 58 min
Cast: Mark Bennion, Daniel Griffin, Ben Hopkin

Very indie, notably imperfect, but ultimately quite good

'No precedence' immediately comes across as the very definition of "indie." The endeavor is both admirable and at times awkward. Most of the cast and crew have few if any other credits to their name, and with little exception those are all just as far removed from the mainstream. The screenplay is dubious at times in the dialogue and scene writing, feeling a bit hollow and unconvincing. Camerawork and production values are simply adequate - for example, filming a nighttime scene by the obvious light of a vehicle's headlamps, even though in the narrative there are no vehicles around. To be fair, though - a) suspension of disbelief, and b), one works with what one has.

Further emphasizing the very low-budget, independent nature of the production, 'No precedence' was accordingly shot in / around eastern Idaho, using local talent - plainly confirmed with the small-town setting, and gorgeous outdoor scenery. Where the "local talent" is concerned - frankly, it does kind of show; the limitations of a cast largely filled with non-professionals sometimes restricts our engagement. However, I appreciate that everyone involved, though inexperienced, is doing their utmost to bring the story to life, and there's something to be said for the effort of creating a film with little more than a pen, a camera, and passion.

Yet as regrettably inelegant as the picture is in many regards, it's not at all bad. In fact, when all is said and done - cognizant of the very small-time scope of the title, but also on its own merits - I quite like this.

Yes, the writing is unrefined, including flashback scenes that only very gradually dovetail into the active plot - and at that, not necessarily gracefully, and only as character background and exposition. The execution broadly leaves a bit to be desired, in more ways than one. But if one can look past these indelicacies, the overall narrative is put together well. The overarching sense of mystery initially impresses as more vague and ham-handed than suspenseful and thrilling, but as the movie goes on our patience pays off. It's evident that the most time and energy was poured into building tension in the latter half, and while the result is still a tad clumsy and imperfect, ultimately 'No precedence' is entertaining, pleasing, and even satisfying.

Every element of the feature that perhaps failed to particularly inspire early on is realized with greater care as the story comes together leading into the most crucial moments. Supporting cast members, hardly learned actors, nevertheless give some fine displays when it counts the most. We get some lovely shots, and a few scenes making swell use of the available lighting. Writing and direction is noticeably more polished, and I'd be lying if said I weren't impressed with the rendering of the climax and the conclusion, and those minutes just before.

Even still, there's a few more things worth mentioning. The original score composed by Jordan Roper maybe isn't the most stimulating film music in the world, but especially as suspense builds, it works well to lend to that purpose. Otherwise used sparingly and to effect, I like Roper's contribution. On a more minor note, I highly enjoy the end credits - a little playful and cheeky, emphatically telling us that the film-makers know what level they're operating on, and they're proud of it. (And they should be!)

Above all, though - 'No precedence' seems to mark the debut performance of actress Melanie Stone. I admit bias, having watched several of her other subsequent films, but I'm readily struck by the great poise, nuance, and range she carries, even when she was just starting out. Stone is far from a household name, but I believe she has ably demonstrated her skills across several genres, and is deserving of much more fame and fortune. Though this first role shows her arguably and understandably only just finding her feet, I recognize the same strengths to come ever more to the fore in her acting, and it's gratifying Stone could prove herself right out of the gate.

It's unquestionably rough round the edges, and sometimes patchy in the center, too. Once more, there's no mistaking this is a very independent film, with major production studios nowhere in sight. But the faults are ironed out over the runtime, and the narrative, ultimately solid, feels like it could serve as the basis for a much bigger-budget picture if honed a little more. Non-professional actors do the best they can to fill their roles, while the most noteworthy cast member marks a strong debut. As both writer and director - and co-star! - Mason Stoddard is to be commended for daring to make a movie with so few resources: I think he's achieved a definite success.

The unevenness may be a turnoff for some viewers. For my part, though - considering 'No precedence' on its level, but also simply for what is has to offer, I'm very happy to say that I think this is an excellent feature, rather worth checking out if one has the chance.

Well done!

The mystery genre features the investigation and solving of a puzzle, typically a crime or an enigmatic event. Mysteries are known for their suspenseful narratives, intricate plots, and the challenge they present to readers or viewers to piece together clues and solve the central mystery alongside the characters.

Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, and Kelvin Harrison Jr. in Chinatown (1974)

When AJ and Liz are assigned to work in a small desert town, their friendship is far from stable. Matters become more complicated when they meet another outsider in the town, Daniel, who is looking for his missing friend. When Daniel too disappears, AJ and Liz are caught in a quickly unfolding mystery. The locals, including a diner owner and the town's only cop, are far from concerned about the missing persons in their area. Packed with suspense, No Precedence was made entirely in Eastern-Idaho utilizing local talent.

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