Shedding

In a 2020 world, we're learning the importance of shedding some things. For the characters in this beautifully told fantasy, shedding goes far beyond skin-deep. On the surface, a cat mysteriously turns into a human for a day. But Shedding, the film, is so much more. As the cat explores the wonders of the outside world, we explore the power of just being present for someone. This would be a far less impactful film without the extraordinary talent of director and actors. It is a powerful story well told. Bravo to all. Even the actual cats are absolutely great. I completely believed that the lost cat had transformed into a person. My heart ached for the kind woman who clothed and fed him. I understood the frustration of her daughter, fearing for her mother's safety and sanity. Don't you love when a movie takes all of your expectations; then turns them around and delivers something so much deeper? My acid test for a great film is whether or not I'm still thinking about it hours, or even days, after I've watched it. Shedding is one of those films.

I really enjoyed this film even though I had no idea what to expect. I actually found myself relating a cat and I'm not even a cat person. Be prepared though. It's not your typical movie but it's an artistic take on love and grief.

Who hasn't wondered what a cat is thinking, but to reverse that and watch a cat wonder what a human is experiencing, and then go on a journey of curiosity, compassion, and determination; what a gift, to shed my own normal human expectations and find new layers of human experience through the eyes of a cat. This was a special film.

First, full disclosure, I am a cat lover, so I guess I'm biased. I'm also a movie lover with a considerable number of films under my belt. This movie had me engaged from start to finish. I didn't know it was filmed on an iPhone until I saw other reviews and honestly, I couldn't tell. I mean I could tell it was low budget, but the videography was inspired at times.

At its heart, this is a movie about trauma, loss, grief and overcoming it. The fantasy aspect of a cat transforming to a human for a day just makes the message that much more special. I know it's a cliche, but sometimes cats (or other animals) come into our lives for a reason.

A little film with a big heart and an important message. Shot on a iPhone, this film goes to prove that it is much more important to have ideas and to tell well a universal story. Well done to all involved.