In late April 2025, I took it upon myself to cold email an independent filmmaker by the name of Jonah Fiengold, whom I really admired, and discovered through the power of the internet. To my surprise, he responded, and we have since then formed a great connection over email and in person as well.
Over the summer, I was lucky enough to attend the opening of Fiendgold’s first YouTube film, “Good to See You,” in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, and talk to him about movies, the film industry, and share our creative processes with each other. At the time, Fiengold had been sitting on a film named “31 Candles,” and was eagerly awaiting the release this fall.
Fast forward to Nov. 7 2025, when I was lucky enough to attend the New York City
premiere of “31 Candles.” It was an electric and unforgettable night that perfectly captured the infectious spirit of Jonah Fiengold and his films. Surrounded by the cast and crew, I was able to experience the passion, humor, and heart that everyone involved put into the film.
Here is my official critique of Fiengold’s film:
Jonah Feingold’s “31 Candles” is nothing short of a great triumph for independent cinema and
a genuine win for the rom-com genre. Fiengold’s film is a rare indie rom-com that actually feels
alive. It’s hilarious, full of heart, and unapologetically silly. Feingold writes, directs, edits, and
stars in the film, but it’s his charm that carries it to the finish line.
This movie is a rom-com made on its own terms. Fiengold single-handedly shows that
independent cinema can take risks with story, tone, and character and blend it with absurd comedy
and real emotional stakes. All whilst, of course, on the indie budget. This movie isn’t just funny
and bold. The heartfelt moments resonate, the pacing keeps you laughing, and every scene
brims with charm and authenticity.
As usual, here is a list of things I loved about “31 Candles”:
The New York setting is captured with love and nostalgia. It turns familiar streets into a
cinematic canvas.
Feingold’s performance as Leo is perfectly infused with a mix of charm, goofiness, and
vulnerability.
Grant Fonda’s original score weaves in and out of the film and excellently lifts the comedic
scenes with the heartfelt ones seamlessly.
And of course, Sarah Coffey’s performance brings luminous warmth, and her chemistry with
Feingold feels natural and elevates each scene.
This movie captivates with its comedy, wit, cast, and honesty. It will leave you with a lasting
impression that lingers with you beyond when you walk out of the theater. It’s a story about
growth, embracing the messiness and unpredictability of adulthood, and it’s done so with humor
and heart in equal measure. This film isn’t just a triumph for independent filmmaking, but a
reminder of the power of creativity and a hopeful glimpse into the future of cinema.
