The Drawer Boy

The Drawer Boy is an emotional, poignant, and distinctively collaborative regional cinema offering from Canada. This 2017 indie drama is directed by Arturo Pérez Torres and Aviva Armour-Ostroff. Based on a play by Michael Healey, the film has been adapted for the silver screen immaculately maintaining its theatric texture while encompassing the storytelling power of cinema. The film centers around an urban artist from a bustling city whose life intertwines with that of rural farmers in Ontario during the 1970s.

The multi-layered title of the film The Drawer Boy is an illustrator's term that hints at the converging paths of the two main characters - a Toronto-based actor named Miles, and two farmers Morgan and Angus, residing in rural Ontario. Miles portrayed by Richard Clarkin, is an earnest, young actor seeking authentic inspiration for his upcoming role in "The Farm Show," a play about rural life. To better understand his character’s lives, he immerses himself in the rural environment by offering help at a local farm run by Morgan (Stuart Hughes) and Angus (Jakob Ehman).

Morgan is a gruff and realist individual, overseeing the workforce and chores of the farm. He initially sees Miles as an urban novice out of touch with the harsh realities of rural living, an intruder in their quiet existence. Angus, on the other hand, is a gentle and subdued character, whose past injuries left him with cognitive impairments. However, he vividly remembers the events described to him by Morgan, giving way to a certain element of mystery.

Courtney Lancaster plays the role of Laura, who brings some emotional context and depth to the plot. She provides a mild subplot that plays out in the background, allowing the audience to have a breather from the intense force of the primary narrative.

The film keeps the viewers intrigued with its combination of personal equations, shared pasts, and the contrast between city life and rural realities, unfolding slowly yet progressively. As Miles moves gradually from an observer to a participant, and his bond with the two farmers deepen, the movie explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the power of stories.

Stuart Hughes delivers a powerful performance, connecting seamlessly with his character's rustic demeanor and the rural setting. Richard Clarkin’s portrayal of Miles is convincing as the city dweller navigating through rural norms and engagements. Jakob Ehman, though in a subdued role, successfully creates an air of mystery and curiosity around his character.

The Drawer Boy displays an elegant mastery over visual storytelling. Director of photography, Cabot McNenly, utilizes the rural landscapes of Ontario, lush with verdant pastures and cozy homesteads. The earthly color palette and subtle cinematography elegantly compliment the nostalgia-tinted narrative. Soundtrack by Astrid Janson and William Fallon subtly expresses and enhances the emotional state of characters throughout the film.

The screenplay, penned by the original playwright Michael Healey, maintains the ethos of the film. It is a masterclass of minimalistic execution, interspersed with humorous elements that balance the film’s primarily dramatic undertone.

The Drawer Boy invites the audience into a world where reality and theatre blend seamlessly. It highlights the magnetic charm of storytelling, creating characters that are relatable and emotionally resonant, and leaves the audience with a profound sense of contemplation long after the end credits. The film embodies an artful exploration of the human condition, memory, and the power of storytelling in shaping our lives. It’s undeniable that this Canadian gem will connect with anyone who appreciates original storytelling, unforgettable characters and cinematic beauty.

In conclusion, The Drawer Boy shines as a small-scale film with a big heart drawing you into its evocative narrative, provoking both laughter and tears, and leaves you musing about the power of stories to shape one’s identity, their perception of the past, and their relationships.