The Looking Glass

The Looking Glass is a 2015 independent film that showcases an emotional and poignant narrative set against a backdrop of personal struggles, performing arts, and the formation of unique relationships. The movie is directed by the critically acclaimed director John D. Hancock, widely recognized for his work on 'Bang the Drum Slowly' and 'Prancer.' The screenplay for The Looking Glass is penned by Dorothy Tristan, who also acts in the movie, embodying the character of an aged and grief-riddled grandmother.

The movie rolls out as a coming-of-age story, focusing primarily on the character of Julie (Elizabeth Stenholt). Julie is a teenage girl who finds herself caught in the tumultuous chains of life after the tragic death of her mother. Devoid of emotional support due to a distant, unconcerned grandmother (Dorothy Tristan), Julie is yanked from her familiar landscape of Northern California and instead placed within the alien settings of Indiana. Once a lively spirit, filled with joy and teeming with potential, Julie's life grows heavy and lost amidst grief and melancholy.

Trish Basinger, another essential member of the cast, enhances the narrative with her immersive portrayal of her character. The plot unfolds, divesting layers and penetrating into the complexities of human experiences, emotions, and relationships. A critical factor here is the introduction of the performing arts scenario in the process of dealing with loss, change, and adaptation.

The narrative takes a significant turn when Julie, in her unchartered territory, unravels her mother's old performing arts theater. In the dusty grandeur and forgotten magnificence, Julie starts to retrace the steps of her family's legacy, rekindling a connection with her deceased mother. The film does a remarkable job revealing her metamorphosis, marked by the power of music and dance. She slowly immerses herself into the world of arts, tentative steps leading to surer ones, her passion guiding her on an artistic voyage.

In parallel, the movie presents a transformation happening within the prickly heart of her grandmother, expertly depicted by Dorothy Tristan. As Julie delves deeper into the world of performing arts, her grandmother is seen battling her unsolved issues and opening herself to her granddaughter's pain. Through these transformative journeys, the audience experiences a story of self-discovery, emotional healing, and reconnecting with life and relationships. And within this lies the true charm and depth of The Looking Glass.

The Looking Glass takes the viewer on a roller-coaster ride of emotions, where life plays a symphony, sometimes hitting the low depressing notes, at times reaching the crescendo of happiness and hope. The narrative's path teaching that life, like music, has its own rhythm, and one must dance to it with courage and acceptance, makes the movie a deeply relatable and inspirational watch.

Adding fuel to the fire, the performances by the cast members are remarkable. Dorothy Tristan sketches the character of Julie's grandmother with genuine skills, showcasing a range of emotions from harsh indifference to softening love. Elizabeth Stenholt does justice to Julie's character, portraying grief, curiosity, determination, and growth with a masterful approach. Trish Basinger complements the plot with her compelling performance, adding more dimensions to the narrative's emotional storyline.

The production elements of the movie, such as the set design, costume selections, and music, contribute to creating an immersive viewing experience. The background score of the movie enhances the emotional layers of the plot, playing the perfect harmony to the unfolding drama.

The Looking Glass represents a journey traversing through the landmines of loss, resilience, and ultimately, redemption. The film intertwines the themes of performing arts, change, adaptation, and personal growth. It symbolically explores the themes of mirrors and reflections, highlighting the concept of looking within one's self towards a broader realization and acceptance of life and one's hidden abilities.

To conclude, The Looking Glass is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the healing power of art. It is a layered exploration of grief and the roads leading to recovery. The film underlines the importance of opening up to the possibilities of change, acceptance, and healing through various tiers of artistic ventures. The Looking Glass stands as a splendid blend of a beautifully written script, breathtaking performances, and the emotional ride it offers, making it a gem in the 2015 indie cinema realm.