The energy of budding young love, set against the bustling city of Washington, DC, lends itself to an electrifying romantic adventure in writer-director Carter Ward‘s feature film debut, Step Back, Doors Closing. Grounded by charmingly authentic performances from its lead actors, Step Back, Doors Closing is a refreshing and inspiring film. Fans of Celine Song’s Past Lives and Nora Ephron’s You’ve Got Mail will appreciate this indie film’s spiritual connection to the magic of human relationships.

A Love Story with a Time Limit

Julisa (Carmen Berkeley) is not having the best start to her trip to DC. Her flight from Los Angeles is uncomfortable, and her phone gets water-damaged and stops working, rendering her completely lost. As she attempts to make it to her friend’s apartment without an address, Julisa begins chatting with Ryan (Reilly Walters). Julisa and Ryan’s chemistry is undeniable from the start, clicking as if they were friends reuniting after years apart. Ryan, sensing Julisa’s anxiousness about her situation, offers support until she makes contact with her friend and can continue on her planned journey. But until then, Ryan and Julisa make the best of a strange situation together.

Ryan, a DC native, is happy to show Julisa around the city. As they get to know each other better, they realize they have a mutual friend in common. This finding puts Julisa’s mind at ease and reinforces the adage that it really is a small world. The more time they spend together, the more their innocent flirtations turn into tangible feelings. However, they both know that their time is finite. They live on opposite coasts, for starters. Ryan also shares that he recently got out of a four-year relationship. Despite the timing not being perfect, Ryan and Julisa dive in head first and explore this unexpected connection.

Strikes the Balance of Heartfelt and Humorous

In addition to being a reflection of modern-day meet-cutes, Step Back, Doors Closing is a love letter to being young and taking risks. Carter Ward infuses the perfect balance of heartfelt and humorous moments in the script, and doesn’t shy away from bigger philosophical questions like free will vs. predetermination. Lead actors Carmen Berkeley and Reilly Walters do a phenomenal job driving this film with their onscreen chemistry and layered performances. What is also impressive is the use of practical locations secured, including an airport interior and nearby National Monuments.

Takeaway

“This is a story about being 24, learning to smell the roses, and falling in love,” says Ward. This sentiment is echoed throughout the film in a lovely way. Nominated for the Grand Jury Award at Dances With Films, Step Back, Doors Closing is a film to be felt as well as seen.