Steam

Steam is a compelling 2007 independent drama directed by Kyle Schickner. The movie features notable performances from an ensemble cast that includes Oscar nominee Ruby Dee, Brat Pack member Ally Sheedy, and rising star Kate Siegel. The three diverse characters, who represent three generations, come together uniquely in this gripping narrative.

At the core of Steam, are three different life stories that share a common theme; it's about women from various age groups and backgrounds finding their strength and navigating their way through life's obstacles in their quest for self-discovery and personal emancipation. Schickner captivates the audience with the parallel narrative approach, revealing each protagonist's journey often within the comfortable and relatable confines of a local steam room, a ground for contemplation, solace and introspection for all the three women.

Ruby Dee, an acclaimed thespian known for her exceptional roles in the film industry, brought the character of Doris into life. She is a formidable elderly African-American woman who finds her life to be quite predictable and mundane after losing her husband. Doris is a woman of firm principles upholding her tradition, yet she is not hesitant to unlock a new chapter in her life even at this age. The way Dee infused life into Doris, the audience could relate with the character, feel her loneliness, and cheer for her as she musters the courage to face her fear and carve her happiness.

Meanwhile, Ally Sheedy, a celebrated figure from the 80s movies scene, plays the middle-aged Laurie, a woman struggling with an abusive relationship. Laurie's character is a cocktail of strength and vulnerability as she navigates the suffocating realities of her existence only to muster the strength to live life on her own terms. Sheedy's performance as Laurie further reiterated her acting prowess.

The youngest of the trio, Elizabeth, is a college girl on her journey to self-identity and acceptance. Kate Siegel, known for her later ventures into horror movies, gives us a glimpse into her versatile acting range as the college girl who is on her quest for love amidst her fears and inhibitions about her sexuality.

What makes the movie stand out is its anecdotal narrative style capturing the protagonists' real-life struggles, fears, dileidelights, and aspirations. Steam provides viewers with an intimate look at how different these three women’s ages and experiences may be, yet their emotional journey and pursuit of happiness seemingly follow the same path. The naturalistic dialogue and genuine character interactions provide a sense of relatability, making the audience feel that they are indeed watching snippets of real-life scenarios.

The steam room plays a symbolic role, imparting a dream-like haze to the narrative; it's a sanctuary for these women to be themselves, to bare their fear, to laugh, to cry, to hope. It’s a therapeutic place where the warmth of the steam revives their senility, apathy, value, and self-worth – empowering them to face their personal battles more robustly.

Director Kyle Schickner marks his distinct style with feminine-centric themes that pay homage to the strength of women in a man's world. The distinct cinematography gives each woman's life drama a unique background that enhances the flow of their narrative. The warm and surreal setting of the steam room contrasts with the harsh realities of their life outside it, and Schickner weaves these contrasted vicissitudes of life brilliantly.

The three performances by the lead actresses offer a nuanced portrayal of courage and personal transformation that speaks volumes about their individual talent. Their performances, coupled with the emotionally charged storyline, make Steam a must-watch.

Steam is a poignant reflection of the adage – life is a constant struggle, and courage is not the absence of fear. It's the triumph over it. It’s not just a movie about three women; it’s about every woman who is kind, who is brave, who is a fighter, who is a survivor. It's a heartrending saga of personal discovery and represents a toast to womanhood. Every human being who enjoys a deep, emotionally engaging movie would appreciate this gem in independent cinema.