Over the past several years, Brigham McNeely has taken the concept of what a faith-based film is, and turned it on its head in creative, dramatic ways that truly leaves viewers in awe. With characters that come off as three-dimensional and well-written, to stories that don't shy away from the darker parts of humanity, his films come off as real, gritty looks at Faith in a fallen world. With his latest film, "Metamorphosis," he turns the spotlight on a subject that faith-based films rarely touch on in a serious manner, but one that should be addressed: drug addition.
"Metamorphosis" tells the story of Nicole, a young woman deep in the throes of opioid addiction. Her boyfriend, Zach, encourages her habits, while also dragging her into his sordid life on occasion. But things begin to change when a drifter named Gabriel comes into the town, and starts to protect her from Zach's more violent tendencies. As Nicole struggles with her addictions, Gabriel tells her of another way, as Zach and his friends look for a way to deal with this drifter once and for all.
From the very beginning of the film, "Metamorphosis" doesn't shy away from dealing with the subject matter in a raw, gritty way, showing the effects that drugs have on people, and the lifestyle of those in the world of drug use. It is not a pleasant world, and it gets uncomfortable from time to time. But that is the point of the story: to show viewers the effects of drug addiction and use, and the dark paths it can take. It helps you understand why Nicole feels helpless, and unable to leave this life of addiction behind.
At the same time, the character of Gabriel, points her toward a path that could change her life, if she is willing. So even though the film deals with a dark subject matter, it shows their is hope for those who truly want to get out of the lifestyle, and become more than what their addictions say they are. Both the darker subject matter, and the more hopeful possibilities, are presented in a way that is relatable, and understandable.
The performances in this film are terrific! From Greg Kriek's truly evil Zach, to Brigham McNeely's multi-layered portrayal of the drifter Gabriel, to Cass Huckabay's truly powerful performance as Nicole, all of the actors give their all to make the world of "Metamorphosis" feel real, and relatable, even when the film's more supernatural elements come into play in an exciting, powerful way!
"Metamorphosis" is another well-made film from Brigham McNeely, with exceptional performances, a great script, and a powerful message about the struggles of addiction, and how there is a way out for those who choose to do so. I highly recommend it!
Grade: A-
