Aurora Borealis

Aurora Borealis is a charming and insightful drama film from the year 2005, directed by James C.E. Burke. Featuring a high caliber ensemble cast, including the talents of Joshua Jackson, Donald Sutherland, and Juliette Lewis, this film explores elements of regret, familial bonds, and personal growth, delivered with nuanced performances and an earnest storytelling style.

Downtown Minneapolis serves as the backdrop of this engaging narrative. Joshua Jackson, famed for his roles in award-winning TV shows like “Dawson’s Creek” and “Fringe,” plays our protagonist, Duncan Shorter, a young man weathering the tumultuous tides of his life. Plagued by indecisiveness, Shorter struggles to find purpose and clarity amidst haunting memories of his parents' sudden and tragic deaths while he was still a teenager.

Duncan's grandpa, Ronald Shorter, is portrayed by the revered Donald Sutherland. He's a retired history professor trying to keep hold of his memories while waging a challenging battle against Parkinson's disease. The relationship between Duncan and Ronald forms the core of the narrative, providing emotionally charged scenes that highlight the complexity of their bond. While Ronald's health deteriorates, Duncan's deepening involvement with his grandparents anchors him, offering him a much-needed perspective on the cycles of life and death.

Juliette Lewis, known for her vibrant and compelling performances in numerous films, takes on the role of Kate, a quirky home care nurse employed to look after Ronald. Lewis brings the characteristic charm and depth to the role of Kate, making her a complex and intriguing character. The developing relationship between Kate and Duncan adds an additional layer to the story, beautifully blending romance with themes of loss, acceptance, and resilience.

The narrative of Aurora Borealis cleverly does not shy away from the harsh realities of life. Still, it equally celebrates the joyous moments, intimate day-to-day interactions, and personal triumphs — big or small. It thoughtfully delves into the challenges a family faces when a loved one is grappling with a degenerative disease, painting a realistic but sensitive picture of the harsh realities many families face.

Burke illustrates Duncan's introspective journey with both subtleness and ease. Plagued by his parents' memories and his inability to commit to a clear future path, he slowly unravels, becoming more entwined with his grandparents' lives, leading to transformational changes in his perceptions and aspirations.

The title of the movie itself, 'Aurora Borealis,' holds symbolic significance, representing the evanescent nature of moments and highlighting the transient nature of life, something akin to the fascinating but brief dance of the Northern Lights. Much like the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Aurora Borealis, the movie itself paints a vivid picture, bringing alive the honest tale of a man trying to navigate his life.

Cinematographically, Aurora Borealis is as visually enchanting as it is emotionally riveting. Its icy Minnesotan backdrop serves as a powerful tool in setting the film's tone, using the stark, snowy landscapes to mirror the introspective and challenging journey of its characters.

The film features a resonating soundtrack that deftly enhances the overall narrative. The use of contemporary and classic rock songs complement the story's mood at various points, effectively capturing the ebb and flow of different emotional arcs.

In a nutshell, Aurora Borealis is a stirring exploration of familial bonds, coping with loss, and ultimately finding personal redemption. Each character in the film comes to life with palpable authenticity, making the audience deeply invested in their struggles and triumphs. Its narrative strength lies in its gentle uncovering of the complexities of life, love, and loss - touching hearts and provoking thought in equal measure.

Watch Aurora Borealis if you're in the mood for a heartfelt, thought-provoking film that combines strong performances, a compelling narrative, and a wonderful aesthetic to provide a genuine cinematic journey.