Obselidia

The film Obselidia is an invitation to contemplate the ephemeral nature of human existence, our intrusive footprint on the planet and the impact of time on our lives, belongings and knowledge. Directed by Diane Bell, Obselidia stars Michael Piccirilli and Gaynor Howe in lead roles with a standout supporting performance by Frank Hoyt Taylor.

The protagonist, George, played by Piccirilli, is a fascinating character- a self-proclaimed observer of obsolete things. He is an encyclopedia salesman and a man out of time, seemingly disillusioned with the fast-paced, technology-infused modern world. George takes solace in his quaint project- compiling an encyclopedia, the Obselidia, a homage to obsolete objects, ideas, and jobs. He ardently devotes himself to recording the vanished and vanishing fragments of human existence for posterity’s sake.

One compelling entry in his encyclopedia is Silent Film Projectionists, making him cross paths with the vibrant and intellectually stimulating Sophie, a cinema usher, portrayed beautifully by Howe. Their encounter begins a journey that is unexpected and transformative. The conversation between the two of them, combined with the shared trips to the desert, libraries, and cinemas, fosters a blossoming, unconventional relationship, making Obselidia a subtly passionate love story. The dialogue showcases a deep-dive philosophical exploration of existential concerns over the nature of love, life, and extinction.

The plot thickens when they decide to interview a reclusive scientist, Lewis, played by Taylor, who predicts the end of the world due to the rapid advancement of climate change. Lewis's sobering predictions, his deep grief for the world, and deep-seated human abandonment form a stark contrast to George's optimism and love for obsolete things. The trip to the desert to meet Lewis amounts to the trio contemplating deeply the irreversible reality of things becoming obsolete and extinct, including humanity.

Obselidia is a poetic film dealyet powerful and carries a deep, concerning message about how humanity may be inching closer to its own obsolescence. The combination of love, loss, and lingering fear of our unknown future is narrated in a unique, thought-provoking manner that prompts viewers to reconsider their relationship with the world around them.

The cinematography by Zak Mulligan is a sight for sore eyes, reflecting hope with shiny mornings and despair with dusky evenings with equal elegance. The gentle and tasteful lensing accentuates the overtones of nostalgic retro styled aesthetic, while the visual symmetry gives a languid pace, allowing viewers to immerse themselves fully into George and Sophie's world. The classical soundtrack imbued with sublime piano notes compliments the visual narrative perfectly.

Piccirilli's portrayal of George, with his boyish enthusiasm, inherent dignity, and melancholy is captivating. Howe, as Sophie, is sparklingly vibrant, effortlessly portraying the wide-eyed innocence along with an assertive, inquisitive mind boggling under the weight of existential questions.

Together they form a tender and delicate dynamic, defined by conversations that range from charmingly trivial to intensely profound, sparkled with emotions, dreams, and aspirations.

Frank Hoyt Taylor provides a compelling counterpoint to the duo with a powerful portrayal of bitter reality standing rudely against the romanticism associated with obsolity.

Obselidia plays out as a simultaneously sweet and tragic story, managing to evoke a profound sense of empathy in viewers. It raises important philosophical questions about life and existence while maintaining empathy with the characters, evoking an air of sweet melancholy.

In a nutshell, Obselidia is a thought-provoking, visually stunning indie gem that casts a poignant spell through its characters, diverse themes, and dialogues, making it an engaging treat for cinephiles.