From the mind of Thomas G. Waites comes this one-of-a-kind, playful sex comedyTarget. Waites, known for his role in the iconic cult classicThe Thingand the filmsMoney TrainandThe Warriors, has paved a new path for himself in the film industry. AndTargetserves as his first full feature film in the director’s seat. But, ultimately, it is an inlet, an invitation into his creative space, the inner world from whence the story springs.
Many moviegoers likegood romance movies, and it’s not very hard to see why. Arguably, the affinity for such fare is based on the rationale that there is unparalleled comfort in such heart-warming and spirit-lifting stories. What can send the soul soaring more than the idea of falling in love and possibly living a happy life well into what is described as ever after? But in truth, most moviegoers well-understand films are escapist fare.
Few would argue otherwise. And, with that acknowledgment comes the understanding that what is cast on the silver screen is merely an illusion of grandeur. Such stories are simply a calling to the lover and dreamer in us all. It is a means to invoke fanciful fantasies driven by the ever-present question of what-if. Why? Perhaps, in some way, it makes the status quo a little less mundane.
These delightful gems put a pep in the step and awaken new vigor. However, not all love stories culminate in the tying of a perfect matrimonial knot or the fulfillment of an ideal union. In fact, many are downright imperfect.
Targetdirects its attention to one such relationship that has resulted in wedlock. However, the relationship dynamic is not so perfect. In fact, it’s the furthest thing from it. But here is everything we know for viewers eager to learn how Waite’sTargetexplores a divergent side of the marital union.
Target: The Plot
In simplest terms, the plot ofTargetis affixed around an atypical marital relationship or a divergence from what the majority might define asa realistic marriage. In this film, Waites takes a deep dive into sexual appetites and related tensions that arise in a union between a May-December pair.
Although a pairing besotted by age has its own struggles, this marriage has extra baggage. More specifically, issues of satisfaction challenge this marriage as it pertains to the bedroom and extends beyond.As Cision notes,
“The couple’s marriage goes through an emotional whirlwind after Nick proposes to Laura; they allow other sexual partners into their relationship.”
And as one knows, things don’t always turn out the way one wants them, especially in matters of the heart. Things become even more complicated when a third element is thrown into the mix. So as the story plays out, one becomes invested in what can result when transparency lends to unorthodox asks.
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Target: The Cast
The cast ofTargetis small as the film focuses on the marital relationship of one couple, which is to be expected. The inner circle makes up the core of the film. This core includes the husband (Nick Gates), the wife (Laura Gates), and the added lover (Chip). The aloof, unceremonious, and self-absorbed husband, Nick Gates, is portrayed by Nick Gregory.
Gregory brings experiences from films such asIn Between, Falling for Grace, andGood Bones. But while Gregory brings with him varied experience, his co-stars are newcomers. Jam Murphy plays the role of the agreeable yet contrarian wife, Laura. AndTargetserves as Murphy’s first full-length feature film.
Chip, the reluctant, intrigued, and damaged lover, is portrayed by Phillip Stoddard, a role which also serves as his first role in a full-feature film.
Target: Everything Else We Know
Thomas Waites is a veteran actor with over 59 acting credits dating back to the 70s, which equates to over half a century in the entertainment industry. And throughout that time, he has worked with every genre, from horror to comedy, including a role in the classic 1982 filmThe Thing. While Waites has spent much of his time in front of the camera, his gifts are plenteous.
He has had a lot of tools in his creative tool belt, one being writing. According to Waites, the idea for this film presented itself during the pandemic. Per Waites, in an earlier interview onDead Talk Live, he had gone to school for writing, and instead of losing his mind during the pandemic, he trained his thoughts on what would become a feature film.
So, with a burst of inspiration, Waites gathered all his creative tools to bring forth the uniquely framed sex-comedyTarget.And with this one-of-a-kindspunky erotic featurefull of sass, fans are promised an extra helping of that unabashed bold and spicy sauciness incomparable to any other.
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Target: The Release Date
For those in the market for a little romantic mischief far from your averagerun-of-the-mill rom-com,Targetwas officially released on April 18. And it is now available through Apple and Prime Video.
