Watched this specifically to see Cara Gee doing something besides "The Expanse." She's fantastic in that btw, and delightful in "Red Rover." It's a very different role from the stern, powerful commander of Medina Station, which demonstrates a good range. Her character here (Phoebe) starts off as the stereotype "manic pixie," but proves to have more depth than expected. I do feel a little more background on her character would've been welcome, though if I'm being honest, the same could be said of the main character as well. The plot is enjoyable, combining a touch of science fiction with magical realism, what with the very unlikely things that occur. Suspend your disbelief and watch it. Extra credit for casting another "Expanse" alumna: Anna Hopkins has a minor role as Maya.

Lurking lonely in a self-imposed dungeon basement apartment, whilst his ex loudly explores her oiled and buff Aussie boy toy above, Damon is in desperate need of life altering salvation. It comes in short order with a space-suited pixie chick offering a chance at Mars colonization. The perfect escape for the dead end Earther.

In the truth is stranger than fiction twist, the seemingly far fetched space angle, actual project Mars One, is gathering terrestrials hoping to be extra, and though that wild proposition offers up an enticing film storyline, "Red Rover" is less about outer and more about self discovery.

When the awkward cherub nerd Damon's bottom feeder life is rocked by uninhibited spark plug Phoebe, he recoils, retreats, and reconsiders. His life. Is Mars the answer? Can he recapture his ex? Who is this new whirlwind? Adventure calls, but as always, inertia is an easy option. Red rover, red rover, will Damon come over? That is life's quandary.

Kristian Bruun and Cara Gee sparkle as the mismatched leads, crossing paths as they stumble towards unknown destinations. A silly, charming, endearing, and tasty little deli slice of cinema this, "Red Rover" pulls its roundhouse punches in favour of a series of well placed jabs. Not a knock out, but a bit of a tenacious tickler.

• hipCRANK.

I usually hate low budget movies and am very skeptical of 'Canadian' movies - but THIS movie SHOULD be seen by FAR more people than will sadly ever see it.

(Very) Minor spoilers ahead:

I don't think I'm giving too much away to say this guy is like so many of us who don't feel listened to or respected or valued - and if everything in life was ending, like your job, relationship, home - wouldn't you want to 'run away to Mars' - to just stick your head in the sand like an Ostrich, and run away from everything?

This movie has a fairly large audience out there - of sensitive, intelligent people - who are feeling alone, and unappreciated.

It's really well done, and worth your time invested in watching it.

Maybe I'm getting old - but I used to watch all the shootem' up movies - but I'd now rather see more movies like this.

Strongly recommended.