Ms. White Light

Ms. White Light is a heartfelt, dramatic, and emotionally charged film from 2019 that gracefully explores the discomforting yet inevitable factor of human mortality, while presenting it in a completely new light. The movie stars Judith Light, John Ortiz, and Roberta Colindrez, providing them with the opportunity to deliver some of their best performances.

At the pivot of Ms. White Light is a young woman named Lex Cordova, who possesses an unusual knack for bonding with the most difficult patients on the brink of death. Poignantly portrayed by the talented Roberta Colindrez, Lex is a vibrant mixture of internal struggles, stirred up feelings, notably dark humor, and a unique connection with death. This unique empathy for her dying clients sparks a domino effect on her life, pushing the narrative into touching and unexplored territories.

Lex's father, beautifully played by John Ortiz, runs the unconventional family business that provides an end-of-life service. He initially perceives Lex's unusual talent as being cold and detached. However, as the narrative unravels, the depth and emotional complexity of their relationship evolve, rendering a beautiful representation of an untraditional father-daughter bond. The contrast in their personalities and approaches to clients show the viewer a deeper understanding of their relationship and the dynamic they share, which serves as one of the central themes in the film.

Opposite them, Judith Light excellently portrays the character of Val, one of Lex's most challenging patients. Val is a strong-willed, rebellious woman who refuses to quietly fade away. Light’s performance is a pleasant mix of irritation, charm, and fearlessness, that directly mirrors the potent essence of life. Their encounters lead to sequences charged with emotional dynamism that hook the audience and keep them invested in their evolving relationship.

However, Ms. White Light is not just about death; it is also about life and its unpredictable nature. It dives deep into elements of love and human connection that singer-songwriter Haley Reinhart supports with a beautiful and emotionally packed soundtrack. It’s a journey of self-discovery and an exploration of our mortality. The film offers a unique perspective on how people deal with their end and how those around them adjust and cope.

Lex's personal life also plays a significant part in the overall narrative. Her romantic interest, Spencer, played by the charming and charismatic Zachary Spicer, brings a different but significant perspective. Spicer gives life to Spencer's quirky charisma and becomes the perfect foil to Lex's intense persona. Their love story isn’t a typical one, and this aspect again highlights the film’s commitment to showcasing unusual and compelling narratives and relationships.

Stunningly shot by cinematographer Zachary Spicer, the movie possesses a visual charm with an almost poetic representation of the mundane life patterns and the extraordinary moments that disrupt them. The film's subtle pastel color palette and crisp cinematography help draw you further into Lex's world, emphasizing the film’s emotional depth.

The screenplay of Ms, White Light, written by Paul Shoulberg, is rife with a witty but dark sense of humor that undercuts the grim aspects of the narrative, resulting in well-balanced film composition. Meanwhile, director Paul Shoulberg has adeptly dealt with sensitive, seemingly taboo subjects, creating a blend of compassion and humor. The humor throughout the film never detracts from the seriousness of the theme, but instead, acts as a light in the dark, reinforcing the movie's warm humanity.

In conclusion, Ms. White Light might seem like a morbid exploration of death at first glance. However, it negotiates the journey in a unique, empathetic, and highly relatable manner. It grapples with deep themes and explores a range of human emotions, from pain, love, loss, and finally acceptance- it's a testimony to life in the face of death. A definite must-watch for those who appreciate a well-rounded, character-driven narrative with astute observations of human existential conditions. It's a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.