Little Orphans

Set against the pittoresque backdrop of St.John's, Newfoundland, "Little Orphans" is an indie cinematic masterpiece premiered at the 2020 Canadian Film Fest. Helmed by director Ruth Lawrence, the movie boasts the collaborative effort of a talented trio: Patricia Andrews, Marthe Bernard, and Emily Bridger. Strikingly, Bridger's involvement goes beyond her acting contribution as she is also the mastermind behind the script. This Canadian movie sets a high standard for purveyors of films exploring the intricacies of resilience, reconciliation, and redemption.

"Little Orphans" charts an unflinching exploration of the trials and tribulations of three sisters, Janet, Gwen, and Sylvia, played compellingly by Patricia Andrews, Marthe Bernard, and Emily Bridger, respectively. The trio finds themselves returning reluctantly to their Newfoundland roots for a wedding, catapulting them into a state of chaos that forces them to reassess and redefine their shared history as well as their individual predicaments.

Janet, the oldest, is an overbearing realtor who has been holding the family together since their mother's abandonment and father's death. Patricia Andrews' portrayal of the embattled Janet resonates deeply as she herself had spent a stint of her career in real estate. Beneath the tough exterior of a stern matriarch lurks a sensitive woman grappling with loneliness and grief.

Gwen, portrayed by Marthe Bernard, is the middle child. She was once a promising writer, but self-doubt and an unfulfilled life have rendered her a barely reformed alcoholic. Bernard, best known for her role in "Republic of Doyle", delves into Gwen's character with an understated intensity that paints a poignant illustration of a woman losing, finding, and losing herself again.

Bridger's Sylvia is the youngest of the trio and is the bride-to-be. Sylvia is seemingly successful; however, beneath the façade of a perfect life, there is simmering discontent and a quest for something more, which ultimately leads her back home. Bridger, known for her role in "Undone", has crafted a character that's a perfect kaleidoscope of vulnerability, ambition, and confusion.

The title "Little Orphans" serves as a powerful reflection of the sisters' status, both literally as children abandoned by their mother, and metaphorically, representing their collective journey of loss, recovering, and navigating life as adults. This narrative, driven by the intricate relationship dynamics between the sisters, becomes a fraught and rewarding exploration of the webs of pain, love, resentment, and reconciliation that weave the complex tapestry of family life.

The film is beautifully shot, illustrating the picturesque beauty of Newfoundland while the local dialect and phrases used lend an authentic touch to the screenplay. Emotionally charged scenes and the trio's chemistry intensifies the dramatic effect of the plot, while subtle humor interspersed reminds the audience that life, as challenging as it may be, also offers moments of reprieve.

"Little Orphans" is more than just a narrative arching around familial relationships and hardships; rather, it brings to the fore the complexities of loyalty and estrangement, heroism and fear, saviors, and those needing saving. This balance, paired with nuanced yet sultry performances by the lead actresses and the captivating representation of East Coast Canada, commands the viewers' attention and elicits a heartfelt response.

The film also benefits from a well-rounded supporting cast including Kyra Harper, Andy Jones, Stephen Oates and Rhiannon Morgan, who enhance the storyline with their nuanced performances while further breathing life into the St. John's community.

Strikingly relevant yet timeless, "Little Orphans" explores the maddeningly complicated and ironically simple essence of familial ties and homecoming, a situation that can strike a chord with any viewer. Whether it's Patricia Andrew’s layered performance or Emily Bridger's multi-dimensional portrayal and skillful screenplay, "Little Orphans" creates a delightfully tangled paradox of an experience that leaves you seeking answers and contemplating your interpersonal relationships.

Produced by Jenny Hawley and Deanne Foley, "Little Orphans" exemplifies independent filmmaking at its finest, shining a spotlight on the Canadian movie industry, specific to the Newfoundland region. It's a must-watch for those who value the delicate intertwining of powerful storytelling, compelling performances, and stunning cinematography.