Guidance

Guidance, released in 2014, is a hilarious yet moving independent film written, directed, and starred in by Pat Mills. Infusing dark humor with quintessential elements of effective storytelling, the movie successfully manages to create a captivating backdrop that evokes both laughter and profound contemplation about the idiosyncrasies of life. Mills introduces audiences to a non-traditional hero, an endearing misfit plunging head-first into the angst-ridden world of high school - all while unapologetically flouting the typical ingredients of a feel-good comedy-drama film.

Mills portrays the character of David Gold, a former child actor in his mid-thirties who has been struggling to live a normal life amidst failed auditions and somber financial conditions. The unsuccessful actor, called upon to voice characters in low-budget safety video auditions, relies heavily on alcohol and has an uncontrollable habit of making up fantastical stories about himself. His someday hopes of personal success wane under the overwhelming pressures of life, pushing him into despondency and despair.

When David stumbles upon a job posting for a high-school guidance counselor, he seizes the opportunity in a desperate attempt to escape his troubles. With absolutely no relevant experience or qualifications, he resorts to fabricating an alternative persona based on an amalgamation of his former acting roles, assuming the identity as a guidance counselor - who is heterosexual, to fit into a role that society would deem acceptable.

This misfit guidance counselor's eccentric techniques break all conventions, but oddly enough, they work. David is peculiarly capable of engaging with the alienated and troubled students of his high school, paralleling their quest to fit in with his own struggles to become a part of the ‘normal’ society. He might show up to work drunk, and his advice might be drawn from a wide range of inappropriate anecdotes from his own life, but his pure intention and authenticity endear him to the students.

Another pillar of this story is Jabrielle, an African-Canadian teenager, played masterfully by Zahra Bentham. This role invokes both sympathy and admiration, given her home struggles and relentless determination. When Jabrielle falls into David's path, they form an unusual yet heartwarming bond. Their relationship brings forth the potent theme of human connection – reminding viewers that bonds can be formed in the most unpredictable circumstances and can often lead them to discover strengths they never knew they had.

Equally notable is Kevin Hanchard's portrayal of the school principal, who skillfully adds depth to the movie by representing a more conventional but benevolent authority figure. He creates an intriguing contrast to David's character and further amplifies the film's theme about taking unconventional detours to reach unconventional resolutions.

Guidance may seem like a comedy on the surface, employing its humor to magnify David's flawed character, but it cuts deeper into the complexities of human experience, presenting a poignant commentary on identity, acceptance, and the idea of 'fitting in.' The film effectively showcases the human need to connect, the struggle to adhere to societal norms, and the desperate races against time to fulfill personal ambitions.

The cinematography is simple yet effective, tying together various locales seamlessly into the narrative. Mills succeeds in delivering a film that champions an outcast's perspective and provides an empathetically authentic mirror to individuals on the fringes, trying to fit into society's norms.

Guidance is sincere, unpredictable, and gently profound, achieving its thematic profundity through its courageous exploration of harsh realities via unconventional methods. It is an impactfully resonant film that will leave viewers reflecting on their understanding of societal norms and personal identities.

In conclusion, the 2014 movie, 'Guidance', offers a new blend of comedy and drama by immersing its audience in a world of deception, misguidance, and ultimately self-discovery. Characterized by solid performances, sharp writing, and unyielding originality, it is a film poised to evoke both tears and laughter while challenging conventional societal standards. The story highlights the transformative power of acceptance, be it self-acceptance or acceptance by others, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in indie films that deftly tackle deep societal and personal issues.