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Don't Choke

Countless times, divorce stories have played out in the courtroom, showcasing the painful process for both parties and, if involved, their children. These stories often offer an intense, close-quarters drama with rich emotional depth. Don’t Choke stands out by taking this familiar premise out of the courtroom and onto the tennis court—an unexpected but original setting.

Director Sonny Baez does a convincing job of justifying this choice, as the couple’s child watches from the sidelines, initially unaware of the true stakes. However, as the game progresses, the child slowly begins to understand the significance of the match. The wife proposes a simple but extreme challenge: if the husband wins, he gets custody of their child; if he loses, he will never see them again. It’s a bold and slightly absurd premise, yet the film maintains a grounded and consistent tone, using this unusual setup to transform a conventional story into something far more engaging.

As the match unfolds, the wife takes control of the game with impressive skill, drawing a crowd that gathers around, drinking, placing bets, and engaging in lively discussions about gender roles and women in sports. These conversations add an interesting layer to the narrative, offering diverse perspectives, though with more time, these themes could have been explored even further. On the court, the husband feels the pressure mounting as his confidence falters, realizing that he's on the brink of losing everything, while the wife remains poised and composed.

However, as the story progresses, the role of the daughter becomes an intriguing yet somewhat understated element. While her presence is important, there is an opportunity to delve deeper into her emotional journey, offering more insight into her relationship with both parents. Exploring the daughter’s feelings beyond a simple preference for her father could have enriched the emotional depth of the story.

While the match ends, leading to a poignant moment with the child, the unexpected encounter in the car park introduces an intense and shocking moment. Though the script hints at the husband’s infidelity, the escalation to physical conflict could have been developed more gradually.

On a technical level, Don't Choke impresses with its strong visual style, featuring dynamic sports cinematography and thoughtful use of colour and lighting to represent the passage of time and shifting environments. The film creates an intense atmosphere that enhances the narrative.

The acting in Don't Choke is compelling and convincing, with each performer delivering a profoundly authentic and persuasive portrayal of their character. The actors effortlessly capture the emotional depth and complexity of the roles, from the wife's unwavering strength and poise to the husband's vulnerability and inner turmoil. The subtle nuances in their performances add layers to the narrative, drawing the audience into the characters' emotional journeys. The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, creating an engaging dynamic that enhances the storytelling. Overall, the performances make the characters' struggles and triumphs feel both relatable and impactful.

The ending, while bold, leaves the audience reflecting on its purpose, offering room for further exploration rather than delivering a clear emotional resolution. The unexpected twists challenge the characters in profound ways, sparking moments of reflection and emotional clarity.

Ultimately, Don't Choke inspires conversations about personal strength, the fluidity of roles in relationships, and the courage it takes to move forward, even in the face of uncertainty.