Ten for Grandpa

Ten for Grandpa delves into the captivating world of the late David Goodis, a prominent Hollywood writer and author best known for his gritty, noir-style novels and film scripts. The film stars the highly talented David Alpay playing the role of the young David Goodis, and the seasoned David Huband, interpreting Goodis's grandpa, accompanied by Catherine Black, adds depth to the movie by portraying a complex female character.

Scott Floyd Lochmus directs this emotional and thought-provoking journey through the world of the golden age of Hollywood, memory exploration, and familial relationships. The film is not only an exploration of family dynamics but also an investigation into the human mind and its intricate memory systems.

Ten for Grandpa opens with David Goodis boxing in celebration of acquiring a ten-dollar memorandum, a special memento from his grandfather. Rather than focusing on the commercial value of the photographs and letters, the film is a deep dive into Goodis' life and how this act of sharing family mementos helped him gain insights into his grandfather and ultimately himself.

This film portrays the late David Goodis as someone curious about his lineage, probing into the enigmatic life of his grandfather. Not much was known about his grandfather, but through the mementos, Goodis starts his quest to piece together the puzzle. The grandfather was a Russian immigrant, the owner of a garage, and a possible spy.

David Alpay, known for his powerful performances, truly breathes life into Goodis' character. Alpay imbues Goodis with a keen sense of inquisitiveness, uncertainty, and sadness that makes the character authentic and utterly moving. Opposite him, Huband's grandfather is an enigma, a figure of intrigue who looms large over the narrative even as he remains tantalizingly out of reach.

Catherine Black delivers a fabulous performance as a mysterious woman from Goodis' world, adding a layer of intrigue and compulsion. While not a traditional part of the family, her character’s interactions bring a more comprehensive perspective on the puzzle that is the grandfather's life.

From Goodis's perspective, the film addresses the intimate thoughts and confessions about his family legacy, and one can experience his grandfather's world through his narrative. The story gracefully oscillates between present and past, unraveling the past secrets, mysteries, and the unknown aspects of his grandpa.

The film relies heavily on Alpay's storytelling and a series of montages, some real and others imagined. Combining black-and-white and color imagery with an experimental narrative form, director Lochmus creates a vivid portrait. Furthermore, the film's use of vintage-style videography and special effects lends authenticity to the past memories being replayed for the audience.

Not only does Ten for Grandpa deal with the age-old question of who we are and where we come from, but it also delves into our long-lasting connection with past generations. It highlights how ancestral narratives can sometimes be distorted over time, ultimately changing our perspective on our roots and belonging.

As a biographical documentary, Ten for Grandpa interestingly blends mystery, drama, and memoir. It is an intriguing exploration of our connection with our family history and the elusive nature of the human memory. The fine balance it strikes between its engaging narrative, its rich cinematography, and its compelling character development makes it well worth a watch. The movie will undoubtedly appeal to those who enjoy a rich narrative interwoven with deep introspection and a stirring examination of familial relationships.