The way the film tells its story is very interesting and original. It goes back and forth in time between before and after the death of the mother but it’s the way in which it’s edited that sets it apart from tons of other movies that have used the same back-and-forth technique. It inserts each of the key scenes at just the perfect moment for the viewer to feel the emotion intended; it is out of sync and there was subsequently a danger that it would be hard to keep up with. But not for a single moment does that occur – it’s at heart a simple film just done in such a way that makes it creatively complex.
I love the basic storyline of the film in that it explores how a tragic death of a close member of a family can affect the people who have to deal with it in different ways. As an audience member, and an outside observer, it’s easy to say things like, “Why is he acting like that? What’s wrong with him?” But if you were in that situation experiencing those things there’s no telling how you would (re)act.
Although this is definitely a small film in terms of scale it resonates just as much, and probably more, than the bigger films out there — it goes to prove that bigger isn’t necessarily better. I am happy to have gotten the chance to see this little gem of a film, and I am sad to say it probably won’t get much of a wide release, as it’s one of the best films I’ve seen so far in 2008.
Article comments
1 - Jasmin
Sounds like a really great movie. Have you seen it on the festival? Or somewhere else? I'd love to see the movie, but people said it won't be shown anymore.
Is it true? Or is there another way to watch the movie?
Thanks,
Jazz.
2 - Raj
The film is being shown at the ICA this week in London. Just seen it and 100% agree with the reviewer. Beatifully shot and a highly emotional storyline
3 - Eva
I wanna see that movie ! Is there any way to watch it ? I like the trailer, but I'm from Germany and I don't know how to get that movie here.
4 - Crys
I really want to see this movie! It looks good... Grr, i've been searching for it on the internet and haven't found a bit of the movie besides the trailer. Is it true that they won't be shown anymore like the user above said? It would be disappointing if true, a lot of people in the Us (such as I) would not have a chance to watch it. :(
5 - Leigh
Must. See. This. Movie. *about to rip hair out*
6 - Viv
Just saw this movie on one of the Rogers Movie Channels in Toronto Canada on Aug 2, 2011, so it still has an audience! I also agree with the reviewer. This is one of the best movies I have see "Jack" was quite a performer. Excellent movie