Isabel's Garden

I had the privilege of seeing Isabel's Garden at the LA Film Festival recently. My friends and I heard a lot of buzz about it and wanted to check it out. As we walked out of the theater, we all looked at each other and collectively said, "Wow." It's beautifully written, masterfully shot, and the cast is incredible together. It made me tear up, but it's also so full of hope. The buzz is well deserved and I'm not surprised it's already winning awards. A reminder of how important -- and impressive -- independent filmmaking is. I could not recommend it more. If IMDB let you give 11 stars, I'd give it 11!

This movie warmed my heart. I didn't expect to tear up throughout it, or laugh out loud, or leave feeling a bubbling of hope for humanity, but I did. This is a beautifully written and directed film, with fantastic acting. It's a touching and spirit-lifting story about unlikely friendships and family, and the choices we make as women to take ownership of our own narrative. I was shocked to learn that this is the director and writer Kit Rich's first feature film, which made it even more impressive and made me enjoy it even more. I look forward to seeing what comes next from her (hopefully something soon!)

Please see this film TODAY. Tell every woman you know to watch it, especially anyone who has ever been a part of a blended family, divorce with children. It's a hopeful family drama that is so sincere, raw at times, real and wise. There were moments in the film where I had to pause and just process. "I never told you it's okay to love her" wrecked me. All of the performances were beautiful including the male character, Manuel Lozano. The women are telling this story, living it. I also love that there are 3 generations represented here, the audience gets valuable insight into each woman and her journey. It's really beautiful how everyone evolves. The editing truly was a part of the storytelling here. Loved it. "The best gift I was given...was you". This film is a gift and a reminder why independent films are so essential.

You wouldn't know this movie is an indie film with a first time director because it's simply a great movie. Direction and cinematography are top notch, the story is compelling, and the entire cast brought their A-game. In fact this might be the best role I've ever seen Karen David in and that's saying something. This movie took me on the same emotional roller coaster that the characters were on. I'm rather glad that this was shown in a large movie theater because it plain deserved to be shown that way. Kit Rich went way out of her comfort zone and made one of the best films you'll see in the festival circuit.

"Isabel's Garden" is one of those films that hits you right in the feels. Watching the characters grapple with loss and find the courage to create a new kind of family has stuck with me since I saw a screening at the LA Film Festival. Each actor brought nuance to their character's journey - it was cathartic watching them learn and grow. Jayne Taini's Grace was the perfect curmudgeon turned mother figure. Gabriela Flores, as the title character, is an incredibly emotionally attuned young actress, I can't wait to see what she does next! As Maya, Karen David knocked it out of the park and I connected so deeply with her struggles to find work-life balance, accept her new reality and commit to the family she has found. Writer/director Kit Rich has a strong point of view and effortlessly wove each character together in her fantastic feature film debut. I can't wait for this film to stream so I can share it with my nieces!