The Remedy for a Broken Heart

This is a heartfelt drama about finding love in unexpected places and getting second chances in life. Written and directed, and playing the lead, Dzifa Mallet plays Darnell, a guy who makes a few mistakes and finds himself living on the streets. With his bright future seemingly behind him, Darnell's story takes a few unexpected twists and turns and the chance of discovering a true, positive relationship enters his life. Mallet subtlely plays Darnell with both a mixture of insecurity and confidence. Brittany Seals shines in her scenes as Imani, a young lady with a infectious, positive attitude that doesn't come off as cloying. In smaller roles, Jett Thomas as Imani's cautious sister, Raven, and the actress playing Darnell's mother make strong impressions. There's humor too in the drama. This is a well-crafted story with a strong message: don't be judgmental and remember, "everyone deserves a chance at grace."

Dzifa Mallet, the writer, director and star, did an amazing job. I thought this was going to be a totally different film from the beginning scenes. I was pleasantly surprised. It's a story of ego, suffering, hope, redemption, love and forgiveness. The cast was excellent with standouts in the roles of Darnell (Dzifa Mallet)...Estelle/Mom (Missy Lee)...Imani (Brittany Seals). The story was a bit formulaic, but there were some surprises along the way and it was directed and shot in such a way that was very interesting to watch as well as the use of some great locations. The multi-talented Mr. Mallet has a great future.

Triple threat Dzifa Mallet shines as director, writer and lead in this tale of wasted youth. It's not until Darnell hits rock bottom that he is able to see the divine light towards redemption. Challenged by vices and sin, he finds a second chance through a chance meeting with Imani. The glue that holds this highly emotional film about redemption is the great onscreen chemistry between Dzifa Mallet and Brittney Seals. This film balances upbeat moments with captivating emotional hardship taking place in some of the most depressing settings, ie: hospital, funeral home.

One hundred percent recommended.

Darnell (played by writer and director Dfiza Mallet) is a hedonistic but promising basketball player with a bright future. When a series of bad decisions result in being kicked off his team and losing his scholarship Darnell is also kicked out of home by his mother who subsequently passes away from an illness.

Lost and grief stricken Darnell is now on the streets at the mercy of the elements and the kindness of strangers. (Or lack thereof)

The film doesn't depict Darnell as a victim nor does it treat him like a complete waster . He simply carries on each day using his resourcefulness ability to connect with others and humour to survive and tries to remain positive against impossible odds.

He encounters discrimination and indifference growing understandably weary of people and has fleeting encounters with others on the street just as destitute as he is until he meets Imani (Brittney Seals) a kind waitress who treats Darnell like a person instead of a problem.

A Remedy For A Broken Heart realistically and empathically shows the reality of homelessness- the dumpster diving-the harsh conditions and the social stigma and the reality that everyday you're out there your chances of getting back in get slimmer by every minute. It shows that behind every person using a restaurant bathroom as a make shift shower or begging for change on the street is a human with a story to tell.

Dfiza realistically portrays a broken man with good intentions who is trying to put everything back together.

This film definitely hits home with many features of homelessness present but while that is the protagonists main situation, the film is not all about being homeless. Its the story of a young man defying the modern stereotype and trying to be better and make others lives better around him. The two main characters Darnell and Imani are somewhat unlikely but they give great performances and we can feel for Darnell as he struggles with what life throws at him. Some good plot twists and and good ending but not too cheesy. Overall a good watchable character romance drama film and enjoyable for a Sunday afternoon at home watching movies.