A Touch of Magic

This short is a touching story of unconditional LOVE. There is a heart wrenching story of life's ups and downs as we as humans age in the game of life. The premise of this realization reminds me of Simon and Garfunkel's song lyrics, A Hazy Shade of Winter where we may question what have we as individuals have accomplished in our lives. Often, we need to not compare ourselves to others, but appreciate the God given gifts that we possess in ourselves...and to utilize these talents for the betterment of mankind to our love ones and fellow humans. So much personal thought stimulated by this short.

The name says it all - the film has a touch of magic in every sense. It succeeds in being charming, moving, entertaining, and poignant without being heavy-handed. The casting and performances are spot on. Not easy to keep such a strong, solid through-line jumping between past and present, especially having different actors playing the same characters at different ages and at different points in their lives and relationships. The actors and filmmakers keep the story and tone grounded in the ups and downs of real life. This is a touching film about magic, romance, hopes, and dreams that chooses to treat its subject matter with honesty and integrity over sensationalism and smoke and mirrors. Well-done!

This "old school," yarn will entertain those longing for wholesome stories of a by gone era. Anchored by a strong, lead performance by local legend Lance E. Nichols; Treme, The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button. Mr. Nichols displays the struggles of "Jack Fortier," with the "quiet," intensity of a true veteran of both stage & screen. The casting of the younger versions of Jack & his wife, are spot on; both visually, and tonally! The small town in which our story takes place, is populated by a cast of characters that is reminiscent of Andy Griffith's "Mayberry." The local talent filling these roles, are all more than up to the challenge. The varied locations, including a night club (and, in particular), an "old fashion," bank, offer strong production value. Photography (by talented DP, Gabe Mayhan), adds an impressive CINEMATIC FLAIR. I found writer/director Shane LeCocq's "A Touch of Magic," to be a refreshing change from modern, jaded content.

No spoilers as I think it's best to experience this movie firsthand without knowing too much.

This is truly a special film, one that you don't see too often these days. In a world filled with cynicism, this movie brings a message of hope, love and never giving up on your dreams. It also has some really funny, oddball comedic moments.

The directing, acting and story are all wonderful, and you really feel for each character. The film also does a great job of balancing between the past and present, and the actors do a terrific job of playing both the older and younger versions of their characters.

Ultimately, this is an old-fashioned love story, and trust me when I say it will really pull on your heart strings. (You might need a box of Kleenex nearby.) I hope this movie gets seen by a lot of people, because like the title says, it truly is magical!