Written and directed by Ethan Hawke, “The Hottest State” is based on Hawke's semi-autobiographical novel of the same name. It is a look at a young man's explosive love for a girl and his desperate need to have the same love returned.
William, a budding actor, desperately falls for the seductive and elusive Sara, a young singer songwriter. “The Hottest State” details the highs and lows of their relationship with a raw honestly that at times, is refreshing, but on the whole comes across as quite indulgent.
Ethan Hawke's overly verbose script often gives way to a distinct theatrical feel. The film is basically a two hander, which is challenging for anyone to make interesting.
The film offers some fine performances from the two leads, Mark Webber and Oscar nominee Catalina Moreno. They work well together.
Webber portrays William's desperate longing and insecurity with great success. This is beautifully offset by Moreno's slightly removed performance as Sara. Just like William, I never really felt as though I got to truly know her or what she was thinking.
The Hottest State feels somehow dated which is probably due to the fact that Hawke wrote the novel way back in 1997.
He definitely has a voice and is a competent filmmaker, I just think it is time he moved away from young male angst and tried something new.
The Hottest State unfortunately failed to ignite - 2.5 stars.
