Kindling

An unusual perspective on male emotion, Kindling is sensitively written, sympathetically directed and beautifully shot, with some excellent performances.

We follow the characters though a short summer and we are shown their depth and development as they come to terms with the sad reality of their loved one imminent passing.

The actors put in performances that show they really believe in the story this film is telling, so it is unfair to pick any individual out for praise, as they are all deserving.

And hats off to the young director, Connor O'Hara, who shines a light on this often hidden subject.

I defy you not to be moved by this thoughtful film.

Maybe it was more powerful because I was familiar with it beforehand.

I found it gripping. Compelling. I wanted to hear every word. I wanted to see and take in every scene from a photographic impact point of view. Both from the scenes value to the whole and its visual affect on my consciousness and emotions. Also as one whose whole life has been concerned with imagery. My early years were comics , were about stories in pictures , about visual impact and few words.

Interestingly from that point of view it was very powerful. I suspect without sound it would still work and the message would still be there. Then obviously silent movies had to have impact and get the story across , to keep you interested.

Kindling kept me glued to the screen in a trance.

Was it because I have had two near misses recently ? They say a cat has 9 lives and I have lost many including

Surviving Meningitis , leukaemia and Heart Attack.

So maybe it meant more to me than others.

You can safely be sure that it was a Film I totally related to from that point of view.

Then there is the loss of loved ones. I believe we live on in everyone we have ever met and shared time with. And they live on in us.

One of the most beautifully shot pieces. The use of colouring and sound seal the atmosphere of vulnerability and also strength that give Kindling the essence of real human life and feeling.

The portrayal of male friendship and fatherhood unfurl the status quo in a tender manner that expresses the necessity for people to breathe, unfortified.

Somner's performance balances fear, wonder and bravery; every emotion one in Sid's position may experience. Bell's performance allows a deeper look into a father's love for his son, beyond the filter of stereotypes.

Last but not least, the complete capturing of 'home' and what it means. The fear of the unknown weathered by home: "I don't know where you're off to next, but here's a map of home."

This film has a special place in my heart after watching, from the beautiful and stunning competition and witty cinematography, to the charming and comforting relationship that the characters have with each-other. Kindling had an effect on me which was total emersion in the film. The colour grade gives your eyes a visual hug along with the magnificent score that only heightens the grip that the film has on you. This film brings comfort to those who have lost a loved one to cancer and helps educate people on how it can effect friends and family as well as the individual who is unwell

A story that makes you reflect, laugh, cry and appreciate those in your life.

Kindling is the most uplifting film about death I've ever seen. Throughout the course of the story, we peer into these beautiful moments of serenity in companionship. Boys walking through a field just for the sake of it, a young man and women swimming in a lake, simply to swim, and a mother washing the dishes with a helpful man. Connor crafted this film from a very personal experience, as he too has lost people very dear to him. His maturity on the subject is truly the golden center of Kindling. Especially through the entourage of friends pouring out their emotions in some of the most vulnerable scenes I've seen on screen. I could go on... The acting is phenomenal. I personally found Geoff to stand out in his roll as the Father trying to connect. David Wright's Cinematography is stellar throughout giving a warm, safe atmosphere. Harry Brokensha's score swells with the emotional moments perfectly. Connor's script ties it all together. This film has some laughs, some awe, and plenty of tears. I couldn't recommend this enough.