TiMER

TiMER is a unique indie romantic comedy film from 2009 that combines elements of speculative fiction and chronicles the complications of love in a futuristic world. Directed by Jac Schaeffer, it stars Emma Caulfield Ford, Scott Holroyd, and Kali Rocha, who deliver strong performances that seamlessly blend comedy and heartbreak.

The story is set on an alternate Earth where a revolutionary technological invention radically transforms how people approach romantic relationships. The device is a practical application of the concept of 'soulmate science.' In this alternative reality, a company has devised a timer that, when implanted in a person's wrist, will count down to the precise moment they will meet their soulmate. The device is aptly named the TiMER.

Emma Caulfield Ford takes on the role of the film's protagonist, Oona O'Leary, a 30-something orthodontist awaiting her 'zero hour.' However, Oona's timer remains blank, signifying that her soulmate has yet to have a TiMER implanted. Despite her increasing impatience and anxiety over an unfulfilled love life, Oona refuses to settle for a temporary relationship and plunges headfirst into the frustrating world of 'TiMER-less' dating.

Opposite to Oona, her step-sister and housemate Steph, played by Michelle Borth, faces a different predicament. Her timer predicts she won't meet her soulmate until she's 43. Steph has resigned herself to having fun with non-soulmate partners in the meantime, leading to a contrasting dynamic between the two sisters as they navigate through the complexities of life.

Scott Holroyd enters the scene as Mikey, a charming supermarket clerk who comes across Oona's path. Mikey’s genuine and down-to-earth nature clashes with the usual men Oona dates, which makes him an interesting prospect. However, as Mikey is not her supposed soulmate as per her TiMER, Oona is confliciously torn between her feelings for him and her faith in the soulmate science technology.

TiMER presents an intriguing scenario that explores the inevitable, sometimes humorous, and sometimes heartbreaking, consequences of knowing the future and raises questions about the role of fate, destiny, and free will in our personal relationships. It's a thought-provoking social commentary that uses a simple sci-fi concept to question whether love should follow a preordained script or be left to the unpredictable whims of the human heart.

Beyond the central love story, the film also boasts a powerful cast of supporting characters, featuring John Patrick Amedori (as Steph's equally 'timer-less' hookup) and Kali Rocha (as the sisters' decidedly eccentric mother). Each character, though not central to the plot, enlivens the story's dynamic and provides additional depth to Oona's world.

The film's direction is sure-handed and its script sharp and nuanced, balancing comedic moments with more profound contemplations on relationships and fate. The cinematography is noteworthy, using a subdued, earthy color palette that reflects the film's blend of realism and futuristic sci-fi.

Overall, TiMER is more than a mere futuristic rom-com; it's an engaging meditation on love, fate, and the choices that define our lives. Its thought-provoking premise, endearing characters, and emotional depth ensure a viewing experience that will have audiences laughing, crying, and questioning their own judgments on love.