The little things; nuanced, subtle in its creation of an ambiance during the short but sweet runtime. Examination of grief in all its illogical and wild forms. Survivor's guilt. The aftermath.
Minor complaint with the "romance" scene(s) plus the backstory with Tia's tattoo, something revealed almost as an afterthought in the last few minutes of the film. Although, to van Beek's credit, it was done in a mature manner with credible performances, making it plausible enough, given the vulnerability of the characters. However, still feel like it was unnecessary, distracted from the depth and mood.
Excellent debut performance by the young Gloria Popata as 16 year old Tia. A unique coming of age film with her as a runaway, hitching a ride with two young guys which ends in a deadly accident. Fortunately, Tia and Will are only hurt, but left to deal with the gaping hole left by Matthew's death. Tia decides to move in with Will and his wife Donna after the funeral, lost and still not wanting to return home. Near strangers, they are bonded by the unspoken guilt, regrets, and repercussions of the accident. The new widow, May, is too distraught to look after their daughter, Lily, and she is taken to Aunt Donna's house to live for a while. Tia takes to looking after 6 year old girl, often as the adults are arguing, clearly one manifestation of their grieving.
In the softly lit, bokeh heavy scenes, viewers are reminded of why young children are so easy to love sometimes. Lily, impressively played by another unknown actress,Georgia Spillane, reveals an innocence and naivety in regards to her father's death that is simply heart wrenching. Even more so when that innocence must inevitably be eroded. We adults are reminded of a nostalgia tinged fantasy; the time before we were hardened by the trials and tribulations of the world, before the hardships and truths forced us to come to terms with the darker reality that is life.
A film that isn't very loud with anything, but quietly leaves viewers with an aching sadness, but redemption is close behind. Overall, a greater appreciation for life, for that is all we can do during our time on Earth- our best with whatever curveballs we are lucky enough to have thrown our way.
