Chase - Nichts hält ihn auf (Last Seen Alive)
U.S.A. 2022

Opening 15 Sep 2022

Directed by: Brian Goodman
Writing credits: Marc Frydman
Principal actors: Gerard Butler, Jaimie Alexander, Russell Hornsby, Ethan Embry, Michael Irby

Will Spann (Gerard Butler) is driving his wife Lisa (Jaimie Alexander) from their home in Manchester, New Hampshire, to her parents. Shortly before their arrival, they stop at a filling station for gas. Lisa goes inside to the restroom. After a long wait, Will is concerned. Where is she? He questions Oscar (Michael Irby), the filling station attendant, and calls police detective Patterson (Russell Hornsby). The surveillance camera above the entrance gives a clue: Lisa exits the filling station, is approached by a stranger, and follows him around the corner and into his car. Will, frustrated because Patterson seems uninterested in seeking suspects since he considers Will to be involved, resolves to find Lisa on his own. He contacts Lisa’s parents, Anna and Barry, and shows them the film. They recognize the stranger, a workman named Knuckles (Ethan Embry), who has done jobs for them in their house.

This is eight hours in the life of a man, beginning at 9:30 in the morning. There are five flashbacks which add details such as Lisa’s new independence, information from Lisa’s parents, Will’s profession, etc. Chase (original title: Last Seen Alive) is being presented as a “fast-paced thriller.” It is successfully supported by Sam Ewing’s equally suspenseful music, which keeps us on the edge of the seat. The “chase” is both physical and mental and, as it increases, we begin to predict the ending.  But really, any ending would be fine, including the one we see after 95 minutes. It’s the action that’s important, filmed in just a few locations. Director Brian Goodman appreciated his small but excellent cast, saying, “You need actors who are really prepared to play. Not everyone is willing to improvise. Most want a script, and they want rehearsals.” Filmed in Savannah, Georgia. (Becky Tan)