“$POSITIONS” follows Mike, a blue-collar worker who risks his family’s savings on cryptocurrencies, sending his life into a downward spiral.
Before the title card appears, you’ll know if you’re in or out on “$POSITIONS.” In a movie about cryptocurrency, it embraces the “meme” of it all. Because of this, there are purposefully laughable aspects almost immediately, which surprisingly even include a… dance number? It does indeed.
It’s all fun and games as Mike is on top of the world after his crypto hits. He quits his job. He suggests having an open relationship. The list goes on. But what ends up being the funniest part of it all is… how this backfires completely. On top of this, the film nails “awkward” humor. Characters purposefully speak in strange ways, leading to a number of cringey exchanges. Add in the darkly comedic elements — including body humor — and you’ll likely be laughing hysterically (or be grossed out).
That’s not all, as the film is also genuinely thrilling. As Mike’s desperation looms larger, viewers’ anxiety will probably be through the roof as well. A lot of this comes from Drew Angle’s cinematography and Brock Chart’s score. The camerawork is constantly in your face, implementing a handheld approach with aggressive zooms. And when emotions run high, you can feel this through the visuals. The music aids in this, upping the ante with fast-paced tempos. Combine the two, and “$POSITIONS” ends up being all gas as the ending nears.
It may seem like “$POSITIONS” strictly positions itself as a comedy, but as the numbers come crashing down, the film’s dramatic tones rise. In this, it emphasizes the addictive aspect of the crypto world, with eyes becoming glued to the screen as the candlesticks move in different directions. Because ultimately, this is bleak. Gambling activities (crypto included) prey on the weak. The lifestyle may look “glamorous” on social media, but in reality, it’s usually self-destructive in the long run. Amid the absurd, anxiety-inducing scenarios, it’s this message that lingers.
There is still hope within, however. Utilizing religious and spiritual undertones, faith is oftentimes inserted as a way for characters to look up. While these developments don’t always perfectly intertwine, they feel integral. This is because it’s never forced. Here, as characters make mistakes and commit “sins,” they are offered visions and reminders to put them back on track. This is an aspect of the movie that believers and non-believers will both be able to appreciate, largely because it’s so unexpected within a “crypto” movie.
This mixture of tones is what allows the film to stand out. At times, you’ll be chuckling at the sheer absurdity of events. In others, you’ll be screaming “sell!” as Mike anxiously stares at his phone screen. There’s an even mixture, and it never feels jarring. Writer-director Brandon Daley has a firm grasp on all of these ideas. Rather than sectioning off portions of “$POSITIONS,” these elements are each interwoven throughout. In turn, the entire 97-minute runtime remains a rollercoaster ride.
The cast plays a major role in bringing these concepts to reality. Michael Kunicki (Mike) has a wide-ranging performance, constantly shifting from ecstatic to awkward to desperate to depressed. There are not really more than a few connected scenes at a time where his delivery remains the same, which is an impressive feat. It’s an authentic portrayal of someone spiraling, wanting more, more, more. Also appearing are Vinny Kress (Vinny), Trevor Dawkins (Travis), Kaylyn Carter (Charlene) and Jeffrey A. Hunter (Lorenzo). None share equal screen time with Kunicki, but all are part of memorable sequences. It’s a mixture of differing personalities that meshes together well.
These side characters don’t receive as much development. Daley writes them to appear, then disappear, then appear again. While this can prove frustrating, it’s also a necessary part of Mike’s journey. Prioritizing his wallet, it’s a natural progression that those around him come and go.
Whether you’re well-versed in cryptocurrency or not, “$POSITIONS” is entertaining. Similar to “Dumb Money,” it’s a movie that’s easy to understand and doesn’t waste too much time on logistics.
“$POSITIONS” explores the world of cryptocurrency like it’s the Wild West. There’s never a dull moment. It’s at times comical, at times preposterous and at times nerve-wracking — but also weirdly relatable.
Rating: 4 out of 5
