Topside

Topside is an emotional and thought-provoking drama released in 2020, primarily starring the talented Zhaila Farmer, the impassioned Celine Held, and the equally remarkable Jared Abrahamson. Directed by Logan George and Celine Held, who also co-wrote the screenplay, this poignant tale delves deep into the vast divide between societal norms and the power of paternal love.

The narrative primarily follows the life of the young Little (played by Zhaila Farmer), and her mother Nikki (portrayed by Celine Held). The quirky pair live a unique lifestyle, residing in an area informal yet intimate, a world uncharted by the norms of society. They make their home in the labyrinthine subway tunnels beneath New York City’s vibrant and bustling streets. Theirs is a life characterized by hardship, lack of resources, and unpredictability, but it's also a life of love, close bonds, and an understanding of the world that's unique and spectacular in its own right.

When city officials discover their makeshift home hidden deep beneath the urban sprawl, Nikki and Little are forced to abandon their cherished subterranean dwelling. They find themselves suddenly thrust into the overworld, a place transfixed with the chaos of city life, a far cry from the quiet shadows and familiarity of their former home. Together, they face the daunting task of navigating this new and alien world that operates on rules and norms so different from what they are accustomed to.

The journey takes viewers through the contrasts and struggles faced by those who don't fit into society’s conventional puzzle. It also explores themes of motherhood, homelessness, and lack of societal empathy towards those pushed to the fringes. Through magnificent performances by Zhaila Farmer and Celine Held, the film sensitively portrays the trials and tribulations of an unusual family unit combating societal forces while displaying an untamed determination to survive.

The dynamics between Nikki and her daughter Little forms the backbone of the narrative. Celine Held delivers an arresting performance as Nikki, intensifying the narrative with her portrayal of the challenges and emotional toll experienced by a mother desperately trying to protect her child in a relentless world. Yooung Zhaila Farmer, on the other hand, perfectly embodies the innocent yet resilient Little, a precocious child forced to mature beyond her years, yet retaining a sense of wonder and curiosity that is heartwarming and heart-rending in equal measure. She brilliantly captures the complexities of the character, endearing viewers with her courageous spirit and unwavering faith in her mother.

Jared Abrahamson plays a small but integral role as Clint, adding another layer to the thematic underbelly of the narrative. His interactions become pivotal points in the storyline, which places him at significant crossroads with Nikki and Little. His performance seamlessly blends into the narrative fabric, subtly influencing the course of the plot without overwhelming the fundamental focus, which remains Nikki and Little's poignant and immersive journey.

Behind the camera, directors Logan George and Celine Held capture the essence of the narrative with a gripping, documentary-like realism. This approach lends a raw and veritable depth to the cinematographic portrayal of their underground living and the sprawling city above. Every frame paints an authentic picture of life as it ensues in these contrasting worlds, further enforcing the disquieting reality of social disparity. The filmmakers imbue the narrative with a rare sense of humanity, making 'Topside' a powerful depiction of survival, resilience and undying hope in the face of adversity.

On the visual front, the cinematography of 'Topside' is riveting, capturing every spectrum of the film's subterranean and urban settings with startling attention to detail. The writing is crisp and emotional, compelling viewers to reflect upon the broader issues of homelessness and societal apathy.

In conclusion, 'Topside' is not merely a cinematic experience, but an immersive journey that challenges convention and poses poignant questions about societal structures and empathy, making it a must-watch for fans of serious and thoughtful cinema. This film serves as a haunting reminder of the overlooked lives hidden away in the depths of our bustling cities, urging us to reflect on our understanding of hope, survival, and the power of human resilience.