Elijah's Ashes

Elijah's Ashes is a 2017 independent comedy film that explores complex family dynamics, societal norms, and the journey of self-discovery amidst the backdrop of personal loss. With a sharp script and clever direction, this movie immerses the viewer into the trials and tribulations of its characters. The core cast includes Ari Schneider, Ryan Barton-Grimley, and Toni Charline, whose acting prowess adds depth and authenticity to the storyline.

Directed by Ryan Barton-Grimley, Elijah's Ashes tackles patriarchal norms while integrating emotional depth and wit, embodying the essence of dark humor combined with elements of drama. Ari Schneider renders an impressive performance as Lawrence Shaw, a put-upon man still trying to navigate his complicated life. Ryan Barton-Grimley's role as Kevin, Lawrence's frivolous, live-for-the-day brother, brings in comedic relief, maintaining a light-hearted touch to balance the narrative's undertones of emotional turmoil. Toni Charline plays a pivotal role as Madelyn, who stirs up unexpected romance in the plot.

The story unfolds following the death of their father Elijah, as Lawrence and Kevin grapple with their complex feelings towards him. Lawrence, the introverted straight man, does his best to adhere to societal standards, while his openly gay brother, Kevin, is the polar opposite. A string of events forces the two to embark on a road trip together to scatter their father's ashes. This trip unwillingly enables the two brothers to confront their anxieties and prejudices, stirring their personal growth and mutual understanding.

The story execution of Elijah's Ashes is exceptional, drawing in viewers through the subtle transitions from comedy to gut-wrenching emotional scenes. The cinematography beautifully captures the essence of the characters' journey. The visual metaphor of the road trip not only paves the way for physical movement but also signifies an emotional journey, carving their pathway to self-discovery and acceptance.

Family issues, societal contention, and apprehensions of identity are intricately woven into the storyline of Elijah's Ashes, reflected through the characters' dialogue and interactions. The witty yet thought-provoking dialogues serve as reminders of the prejudices and stereotypes ingrained within society.

As Lawrence and Kevin traverse through their own emotional landscapes, their shortcomings start to emerge, providing a window for self-reflection. The comedy is intelligently injected to buffer the heavy emotions that are an integral part of the thematic narrative. These lighter moments relieve the tension, allowing viewers to appreciate the poignant moments more deeply. Despite their diverse perspectives, the two brothers find common ground in their shared grieving process.

Performance-wise, the leading men do an excellent job of showcasing their respective characters' personalities. Ari Schneider's portrayal of Lawrence is worth noting, as he beautifully captures the subtleties of his character's inner turmoil and strives for acceptance. Meanwhile, Ryan Barton-Grimley brought an effortless charm and spontaneity to Kevin's character that epitomizes the free-spirited nature of his role. Toni Charline lends an incredible supporting role that adds an unexpected edge to the story.

Elijah's Ashes boldly addresses the complexities of real-life relationships, prejudices, acceptance, and the process of grieving, with an authentic and resonant narrative. It interweaves these heavy themes with light-hearted humor, creating a unique cinematic experience. The charm of this film lies in its realistic characters, emotional depth, wit, and simple storytelling, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate films with heart and humor.

In conclusion, Elijah's Ashes is a film that treats complex themes with a perfect mix of seriousness and light-heartedness, all backed by stellar performances from its cast. If you're in the mood for an indie film that will both make you laugh and tug at your heartstrings, then Elijah's Ashes is well worth your time.