Raising Izzie

Raising Izzie is a poignant and heartwarming drama film released in 2012 that deals with the subject of love, family, and belonging. The film features an incredible cast led by Rockmond Dunbar, Vanessa Williams, and Victoria Staley. Their solid performances add depth and emotion to the beautifully crafted storyline.

The film follows two young sisters named Izzie and Gertie, played brilliantly by Victoria Staley and Kyla Kenedy respectively. Life takes a tragic turn for the two when their mother falls seriously ill and soon passes away, leaving the young girls orphaned. Fearful of the prospects of being separated in the foster care system, the two sister decide to keep their mother's death a secret. The girls put their wits and courage to the test to make ends meet, while dealing with the the tragic loss of their mother. This forms the foundation of the film, presenting it with layers of emotional complexities that are both heartfelt and riveting to watch unfold.

On the other side of this story, we meet a married couple, Greg and Tonya Evans, played by Rockmond Dunbar and Vanessa Williams. Their life seems to be moving along nicely, except for one thing. They are unable to bear children of their own. This missing part of their life creates a void that they yearn to fill. Their path eventually crosses with the young sisters, setting the scenes for a potential intertwining of lives in ways they would not have expected.

The performances of the actors in Raising Izzie are of top-notch quality, especially by the two young girls - Victoria Staley and Kyla Kenedy who portray the struggles of their characters convincingly with equal parts strength and vulnerability. The script of the movie, penned by David Martyn Conley, also requires a special mention for its ability to portray the harsh realities of life and the beauty of unexpected relationships through a story that is both realistic and deeply moving.

Rockmond Dunbar, popular for his roles in crime dramas like 'Prison Break' and 'The Mentalist,' showcases his versatile acting talent in Raising Izzie. His portrayal as Greg, a teacher battling with his wife's infertility is raw and emotive. Vanessa Williams, shines in her role as Tonya, a woman dealing with the inability to have her own kids and gradually opening herself to the possibility of forming a unique bond with the two orphaned girls. The chemistry between Dunbar and Williams adds depth to their characters and enhances the dramatic core of the plot. The hopeful and resilient spirit of Izzie and Gertie, is depicted beautifully by Kenedy and Staley forming the emotional heart of the film.

Without giving too much away, Raising Izzie is not just a film about managing loss and seeking solace. It's also a story about opening one's heart up to the possibilities of new relationships and the forms they can take. The direction by Roger M. Bobb does a commendable job in maintaining the depth and gravity of the storyline without veering into melodrama. At its core, Raising Izzie manages to present a sensitive look into the lives and struggle of the characters amidst their deeply personal challenges.

The cinematography, by Ross Sebek, enhances the compelling narrative by capturing the raw emotions of the characters, and the contrasting landscapes of their lives. The visual storytelling in Raising Izzie goes hand in hand with the narrative to portray a tale that is both aesthetically and emotionally satisfying.

Raising Izzie is a film that deftly combines elements of drama, emotional intensity, and a touching narrative. It's a compelling look at how life can throw unexpected challenges and how love and family can come from the unlikeliest of places. This film will resonate with its audience, making them contemplate the power of hope, the importance of family, and the strength of the human spirit when faced with adversity.