‘Sew Torn’ Review: A Chaotic Crime Comedy that Doesn’t Quite Mend its Flaws

In “Sew Torn,” a high-concept crime farce, viewers are introduced to a fantastical array of alternate realities, each diverging from our own in whimsical and bizarre ways. This debut feature from writer-director-editor Freddy Macdonald blends small-town antics with neo-noir tension and inventive comedy, drawing clear inspiration from Tom Tykwer’s “Run Lola Run” — a film made before Macdonald’s birth.

Despite its obvious lineage, “Sew Torn” stands out as a unique creation with a blend of folk humor and dramatic grit, featuring a heroine who could be described as MacGyver with a sewing kit.

While some may find its whimsical approach either delightful or overstretched, it has certainly garnered attention, especially given its evolution from Macdonald’s 2019 short film, which earned him industry accolades, including representation by UTA and acceptance into the AFI Conservatory.

The film begins with protagonist Barbara (Eve Connolly) reflecting on her life choices through voiceover, a mantra she repeats as the narrative explores various paths and outcomes. Viewers might be puzzled by the film’s setting — an English-speaking Swiss Alpine valley where nothing feels quite real — though Macdonald’s childhood experiences in Switzerland offer some context.

As Barbara struggles to maintain her late mother’s mobile seamstress business, her story takes an unexpected turn when a routine drive leads her to a crime scene involving injured motorcyclists, cocaine, and cash. Her decisions — whether to steal the money, call the police or drive away — unravel into a series of surreal, interconnected events involving dangerous criminals and a tenacious sheriff.

The film’s charm lies in its ludicrous set pieces, where Barbara’s sewing skills become pivotal in crafting elaborate contraptions and evading peril. The narrative’s emphasis on inventive, whimsical scenarios — such as a choreographed battle set to a vintage song — underscores its departure from conventional thriller tropes.

“Sew Torn” is more about creating a fantastical, adult playland where reality is whimsically reconfigured. With its vibrant cinematography and nostalgic production design, the film showcases Macdonald’s potential for crafting bold, imaginative stories that could position him as a future talent.