Trauma Is a Time Machine

The intense and poignant independent film, Trauma Is a Time Machine, released in 2018, explores the aftermath of a traumatic event, focusing primarily on how an individual negotiates life post-trauma. The film is directed by Angelica Zollo, and it stars talented actors Augie Duke, Gabe Fazio, and Elizabeth A. Davis. These renowned artists breathe life into a storyline that is simultaneously sobering and gripping, presenting a raw, unfiltered depiction of internal turmoil and strife.

Augie Duke, known for her performances in various acclaimed independent films, delivers an incredibly nuanced performance as the lead character, Helen. Helen suffers a traumatic event that leaves her emotionally shattered, her sense of self drastically shattered. She navigates her way through a maze of pain, denial, and grief, attempting to repair her life and identity.

Gabe Fazio, another seasoned actor, paints a multifaceted portrayal of the complex character Ashe, whom we find inextricably linked with Helen's traumatic experience. His performance brings a clear depth and complexity to the character, thus helping to layer the overall narrative with additional dimensions. Elizabeth A. Davis, who plays Helen's mother, does a tremendous job portraying a woman torn between her maternal instinct of protection and the atypical predicament she finds herself in concerning her daughter's circumstance.

The narrative, as it unfolds, takes us down a winding path of self-reflection and introspection, as we view the unfolding events primarily from Helen's perspective. The timeline is non-linear, a creative decision by the director to reflect the 'time machine' aspect of trauma. This intelligent storytelling technique mimics how memories tend to surface, not in ordered chronological sequences, but in disjointed fragments, affected by triggers and emotions. Consequently, the audience experiences Helen's journey in a manner reminiscent of real-life trauma, thus making the narrative more relatable and impactful.

Augie Duke, as Helen, portrays the difficulty of picking up one's life post-trauma with unflinching realism. She reflects the pain, confusion, guilt, and anger that are often associated with traumatic experiences. She is building various strategies to cope, such as writing as a therapeutic activity. Here, viewers are given a chance to contemplate the healing power of self-expression and the pivotal role it plays in the journey towards self-recovery.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth A. Davis brings to life the character of a distressed mother. She is powerless, yet desperate to help her daughter navigate through her trauma. Her character adds a significant layer to the film, providing a different perspective on damage and recovery. The relationship between Helen and her mother subtly explores the complexities of family dynamics when a loved one is hurting, thereby demonstrating the reverberations of trauma in the lives of those associated with the victim.

In playing Ashe, Gabe Fazio’s performance is incredibly compelling as it provides a counterpoint to Helen’s narrative. Ashe’s actions and their consequences present a stark contrast to Helen’s journey, forming an essential piece of the narrative puzzle that unfurls as the film progresses.

Utilizing a combination of close-ups and long shots, the cinematography creates an almost claustrophobic feeling, mirroring Helen's emotional state. With minimalistic settings and a color palette dominated by muted grays and blues, the visual presentation mirrors the film's subdued and introspective mood. The score, while minimalist, complements the tone of the film, emphasizing its contemplative nature.

In essence, Trauma Is a Time Machine is an emotionally-charged journey through the labyrinth of post-traumatic healing. The film's title serves as the movie's underlying proposition, suggesting that the aftermath of trauma indeed functions as a time machine. By delving into concepts like emotional hurt, recovery, and resilience, this film offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human experience. If you are drawn towards movies offering deep insight into the human psyche and emotional complexities, Trauma Is a Time Machine is undoubtedly worth a watch.