Getting Grace

Getting Grace (2017) is an uplifting and heartwarming movie, co-written, directed, and starred in by veteran actor Daniel Roebuck. This dramatic comedy features Madelyn Dundon in the titular role of Grace and Marsha Dietlein, best known for her role in 'Little Children.' The film dives deep into themes of life, death, and the human connection.

The story centers around Grace, a sixteen-year-old girl combating terminal cancer. Dundon's portrayal of Grace is an absolute spectacle, seamlessly alternating between her sardonic wit and vulnerability. Her character is brimming with life, overflowing with humor and hope, despite dealing with her imminent mortality—a paradox that Dundon manages to capture flawlessly. Grace may be dying, but she isn't ready to leave the world just yet. She exudes an adventurous spirit that remains unbroken by the relentless grind of chemotherapy and hospital routines. Dundon plays Grace with an infectious vitality that breathes life into the film.

Daniel Roebuck stars as Bill Jankowski, a socially awkward yet kind-hearted Funeral Director. He is a man who is more comfortable around the dead than the living. His life takes a dramatic turn when Grace crashes into his well-structured and predictable routine with her vivacious personality and curious nature. Roebuck's portrayal of Bill is both emotional and captivating. The transformation of Bill’s character from a sullen loner to someone embracing the fullness of life forms the heart of the movie's narrative.

Marsha Dietlein, playing the role of Grace's mother, Venus, delivers an emotionally compelling performance as a woman attempting to cope with her daughter’s terminal illness. Dietlein's character, laden with sadness and desperation, adds an additional layer of depth to the film's storyline. Her struggles and the strength she portrays as a single mother dealing with impending grief add a realistic touch to the otherwise heartwarming storyline.

Getting Grace isn't just a tale about a girl suffering from cancer or about the man running a mortuary; it’s a celebration of life and a lesson about harnessing joy from adversity. It’s a story of an unlikely friendship blossom between two contrasting personalities—a teenage girl full of life yet slowly dying and a man surrounded by death but gradually learning to live. The chemistry between Bill and Grace smolders throughout the movie, adding a palpable tenderness to their almost father-daughter-like relationship.

The film is teeming with humor. From Grace's sardonic one-liners to Bill’s socially awkward antics. The screenplay is sharp and witty, balancing the dramatic moments with plenty of laughter. Yet, it keeps enough room for the viewers to contemplate on the gravity of the situation. The movie skillfully uses humor to lighten the tragedy, striking a perfect balance between the bleakness of impending death and the joy of living in the present.

Set amidst the beautiful landscapes of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the cinematography is visually delightful. Each frame subtly reiterates the poignant narrative of the film. The musical score complements the shifting moods of the scenes—light-hearted at times, soul-stirring at others.

Getting Grace transcends the stereotypes usually associated with dramas dealing with terminal illnesses. Instead of casting the shadow of death, it shines the light of life. It makes a profound statement about cherishing the vibrancy of existence as death looms. Roebuck has successfully showcased a narrative filled with warmth, humor, and a sense of wonderment.

The film's poignant vibe will tug at your heartstrings, while its humor will leave you chuckling. This dramatic-comedy is more than just a tale of life's finite existence; it is a lifelike portrayal of resilience, love, optimism, and courage. Getting Grace demonstrates how experiencing life through the lens of certain death offers a unique perspective, making you question and appreciate the extraordinary beauty of ordinary moments.

In conclusion, Getting Grace is a beautifully crafted film—Nostalgically genuine, remarkably emotional, and brilliantly humorous. It provokes thoughts about mortality, instills the value of cherishing every moment, and illustrates the profound transformation possible through human connection. Whether you're seeking a heartwarming drama that celebrates life or a comedy that explores the beauty of unlikely friendships, Getting Grace is a truly memorable cinematic journey.