Charlie is a melancholic and deeply emotional exploration of grief and fear. The story centers on a widowed mother grappling with the challenges of raising her emotionally volatile teenage son, Charlie. On the surface, Charlie (played by Gavin White) appears emotionally withdrawn and possibly on the autism spectrum. However, as the film unravels, we come to understand that there is something far more sinister driving his outbursts.
The film's narrative unfolds in a non-linear fashion, slowly building tension as it leads up to its chilling finale and a powerful emotional reconciliation. Gavin White delivers a standout performance, showcasing a complex range of emotions in his portrayal of Charlie. His real-life mother, Kari White, also does an admirable job in the role of his on-screen mom, lending a palpable authenticity to their fraught relationship.
Visually, the film is well shot, with careful attention to detail, though some scenes linger longer than necessary, slowing down the pacing. This is a common challenge when the director of photography also serves as the editor, as maintaining objectivity can become difficult. Despite these pacing issues, Charlie delivers a solid and moving story. For those who are patient with its deliberate, slow-burn approach, the film offers a rewarding and thought-provoking experience.
