Allen Sunshine

Allen Sunshine is a rare debut that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. The film's compositions are meticulously balanced, every frame could be a painting, and yet it never feels contrived. Capturing the stillness of Canadian wilderness as both backdrop and metaphor. Wardrobe choices, subtle yet deliberate, and the depiction of Allen's experimental electronic music creation add a poetic texture to the film's mood. These artistic elements intertwine seamlessly, enhancing rather than distracting from the experience.

Harley demonstrates a remarkable visual confidence for a first feature, and it's no surprise that this film earned him the Werner Herzog Film Award in 2024. With Allen Sunshine, he announces himself as a bold new cinematic voice, one who could very well be the next big thing.

Allen Sunshine truly delves into what it means to be human. Wonderfully simplistic, it never tries to be anything it is not, yet I found its effect on me to be profound, to say the least. As I, and everyone who will see this movie in some way shape or form, have been impacted by suicide, Allen Sunshine invites us to ponder the preciousness of life and the importance of human connection.

An impressive performance by the leading man, he subtly and outstandingly portrays the nuances of grief in a way that felt entirely genuine. Aesthetically, every shot was a painting. I felt the strong urge to jump through the screen and jam on that synth collection in that gorgeous wooden cabin.

A Marvellous debut by this young Director, can't wait to see what's next.

Allen Sunshine absolutely blew me away. It's such a heartfelt, beautifully made film - one of those rare movies where everything just clicks. Harley Chamandy did an incredible job bringing this story to life. It's seriously impressive how he pulled off so many tricky parts - amazing performances from the child actors, the dog actors, even big fireworks and boating scenes that can be so hard to get right - and he nailed all of it.

The whole movie feels real, emotional, and full of heart. Every shot, every moment feels intentional without ever feeling forced. You can tell how much care went into every detail. I'm already excited to see what Harley Chamandy does next. Allen Sunshine is a total must-watch.

A transcendental film that brings you through a meditative journey of grief, friendship and faith.

I love how light-hearted this film is, given its subject matter, while still maintaining a deep nuance of its tone and emotions.

The soundscape, in its use of electronic music and sounds of nature, is my favourite of the year and is very inspiring in how it combines and prioritized these elements to create its own unique world.

Allen Sunshine is a movie like no other. It has a delicacy which is hard to even pin point. The sounds, the atmosphere, and the environment of the film create an almost meditative experience for the viewer. With a story that is beautiful to follow, it serves as a reminder to remain positive despite life's challenges. I must say this film filled my soul in such a new way that I've yet to feel in front of a screen. Thank you Harley for the fruitful experience!