Little Sister

Little Sister is an intriguing and heart-warming independent drama-comedy film from 2016, directed by Zach Clark. The film boasts a talented cast featuring Addison Timlin, Ally Sheedy, and Alex Karpovsky. Known for its thoughtful depiction of family dynamics and faith, this movie beautifully handles elements of dark humor with dramatic undertones.

The film narrates the unique story of Colleen Lunsford (Addison Timlin), a young woman navigating the complexities of adulthood while being a novice nun. Colleen's character effectively captures the idiosyncrasies of a post-adolescent caught between her familial allegiance and spiritual commitments. Timlin delivers a splendid performance, her depth and versatility carrying the film towards its emotional conclusion.

In the movie, Colleen is summoned back from her convent in Brooklyn to her childhood home in Asheville, North Carolina, after a long span of disconnect. She returns not out of personal choice but because her brother Jacob (Keith Poulson), a wounded war veteran, has returned home after a horrendous war injury that has physically scarred him and left him emotionally disturbed. Colleen's visit involves not only attempting reconciliation with Jacob but also confronting unresolved issues from her past.

Colleen's interactions with her unconventional family form a significant part of the narrative. The family includes her depressed and frequently stoned mother, Joani (Ally Sheedy), and disinterested yet supportive father, Bill (Peter Hedges). Sheedy, best known for her roles in 80s hits like "The Breakfast Club" and "St. Elmo's Fire", brings her esteemed acting chops to depict the beautifully flawed character of Joani.

Her unstable home environment starkly contrasts with the peace and serenity she experiences at the convent. It's a creative narrative stratagem that provides a fascinating exploration of Colleen's character as she balances her vow of peace with the chaos of her family. Regular flashbacks further amplify this dichotomy, unveiling Colleen's goth past that she juxtaposes with her present life at the church.

The character of Emily (Molly Plunk), Colleen's best friend, adds an additional layer of complexity to her dilemma. Emily, along with Jacob's friend, Tricia (Kristin Slaysman), helps Colleen reconnect with her previous life before she opted for the cloistered lifestyle.

Also notable is Alex Karpovsky's character, "The Little Hobo," an itinerant artist living in a school bus who is looking for a place to park his makeshift home. This character adds to the quirkiness of the movie, providing comic relief and simultaneously highlighting themes of self-discovery.

The movie captures the underlying tension among the family members through a blend of comedy and drama. It explores the themes of guilt, reconciliation, individuality, and spiritual dedication with genuine contemplation and grace. It shrewdly addresses the nuances of faith and family without venturing into dogmatic or stereotypical territory, making it relatable to a wide audience spectrum.

Little Sister charms with its offbeat comedy writing that sheds light on serious themes in a refreshingly light-hearted manner. The movie’s score, especially the music that Colleen used to play, resonates with the audiences and adds depth to her character. It plays a crucial part in portraying her transition from the rebellious teen who loved music to the peace-loving young nun who is learning to harmonize her past with her present.

The film’s nimbly styled cinematography syncs perfectly with the mood and tone of its narrative. Complemented by calculated use of lighting and colors, the visual elements communicate much without using words.

Little Sister is a gem in the realm of independent films due to its nuanced narration, strong performances, and remarkable thematic exploration. It encapsulates the struggle of a young woman torn between her current life and past. The film beautifully displays Colleen's perseverance as she navigates her way through boisterous family reunions, past hauntings, and the trial of supporting a brother who's battling his own demons.

With its engaging narrative, profound exploration of familial ties, and Addison Timlin’s compelling performance, Little Sister is a must-watch film that beautifully humanizes individuals' predicaments seeking their path in life and faith. Whether you seek a poignant family drama, a thoughtful exploration of personhood, or a casual watch that subtly challenges your perceptions – Little Sister has something for everyone.