An exceptional Brian Tyree Henry headlines The Outside Story, a comedic drama that delves into the isolationist nature of our times and its detriment to community and relationships.

Written and directed by Casimir Nozkowski, The Outside Story tells the story of Charles (Brian Tyree Henry), a video editor of In Memoriams for the TCM channel. Much like the documentary passion project he was once inspired to make, Charles’ life is “on hold”. Isolated in his apartment, and heartbroken over his breakup with girlfriend Isha (Sonequa Martin-Green), Charles’ day is a deluge of deliveries: takeaway, clothing, footwear. The experiences of the outside world hold little interest.

Then one day Charles locks himself out of his apartment. With no shoes, no cash, and little battery on his phone, the ultimate shut-in now how to rely on his neighbours – a community of diverse backgrounds and lifestyles – to see him through, until he finds himself in the sweet embrace of home again.

Filmed and set in Brooklyn, The Outside Story plays out like an urban adventure, with Charles exploring never-before-seen facets of this neighbourhood and the people within. Whether watching the skyline from his apartment building rooftop, or sampling the different eateries that reflect his neighbourhoods culturally diverse community, Charles slowly thaws himself out of his socially stuck demeanour to embrace the world that is, rather than cocoon himself in the world he has created.

Brian Tyree Henry is exceptional as Charles, bringing a personable and engaging quality to a man whose isolated demeanour has not won many friends. Beginning his day with the statement “hope is not welcome today”, Charles is a character of little optimism, and Green plays that depression and fear and stubbornness with a palpable emotional depth that shines through. While Charles is a man finding himself through a unique circumstance, Green proves to be an actor in total control on his capabilities and talent, delivering a character piece of range, depth, and humanity.

With The Outside Story, Nozkowski effectively comments on the ease in which a person can isolate themselves from the rest of the world. Although filmed before COVID, this story of a man separated from his community will no doubt touch many yearning for more contact, especially in a New York City in which the pandemic has hit especially hard. The portrayals of friendships in The Outside Story, made through simple acts of communication, kindness, and sacrifice are beautifully done, and reminds more than ever about the command to “love your neighbour”, especially in times of trouble.