Sports dramas tend to follow a pattern. Soccer, football, and martial arts are common focal points, with very few narratives falling outside these categories. Last Set, directed by Joe Acierno and written by Jose Alberto Alvarez, breaks the mold, approaching the pressure of competition from the viewpoint of a bodybuilder.
Starring Alvarez as prospective talent Montez, the film is a study of temptation and dedication, where everything is on the line and some are willing to sacrifice more than they bargain for to achieve success.
Montez Blatche is pursuing his bodybuilding dreams but feels unsatisfied with his progress ahead of a major competition. Support from his father/coach Reginald (Steve Downig) doesn’t seem to cut it as he turns to fellow bodybuilder and mentor figure Hubert Garcia (Casey Ericson). Blatche has a confession to make: he’s considering taking steroids to further his development. Garcia shuts down his idea with an affirming speech about how his life could radically change if he went down that path, ultimately discouraging Montez. However, Garcia’s tactful facade hides a darker side. His personal struggles have already gotten the better of him, twisting competitive fire into a volatile obsession.
The relationship between Montez and Reginald is perhaps the most intriguing dynamic that Last Set has going for it. Things do get heated between the two as Montez becomes less and less confident in his momentum, all while his dad tries to push him to perform to the best of his abilities. This aspect of the short could have been stronger if the screenplay had expanded Montez’s journey. We understand that he should want this and that everything hinges on his upcoming appearance in the spotlight, but we never fully comprehend what initially sparked that desire.
Nevertheless, Montez makes his insecurities about steroid use known, and that’s where Hubert Garcia makes his presence known. Ericson’s performance as Garcia is brazen. Despite the intensity, Ericson’s acting truly shines in the quieter moments. Unfortunately, his home life just feels like a jumbled compilation of clichés and issues that his character archetype is meant to experience. From missed payments to failed pregnancies with his girlfriend and the occasional breakdown, there is no room for subtlety when it comes to Hubert.
Flaws in storytelling concepts hinder Last Set from reaching its full potential, but between some strong performances from its leading cast and an interesting perspective to offer, it’s certainly worth a watch.
