Where Children Play

Where Children Play tells the story of a broken family finding its way back to reconciliation and healing. It's an emotive drama, directed by Leila Djansi and released in 2015, that prudently outlines the intersecting destinies of its characters with an empathetic lens. The lead roles are occupied by Teyonah Parris, Brian White, and Grammy-winning artist Macy Gray, who all bring deep, nuanced performances to this compelling film.

The storyline revolves around Bellissima, a character poignantly portrayed by Teyonah Parris, who has escaped her past traumas behind the veil of a successful nursing career away from home. Bellissima's past is dotted with distress, primarily from the abusive behavior of her now-ailing father played by Edwina Findley. However, when her father becomes terminally ill, she is pushed back to the very place she ran away from.

Upon her return to her family home, Bellissima is confronted with both her painful past and the attendant responsibilities of caring for her father. This forces her to face grim life situations, navigate conflicts, and brave the prying eyes of her former friends and neighbors. It is there that she must also confront her elder sister, Jannine, played by Macy Gray. Jannine, who suffers from mental health issues, had been neglected alone in the family home, the tug of war between her handicaps and her strong-willed persona showcases the result of a childhood filled with abandonment and neglect.

The character played by Brian White adds a romantic layer to the story. A childhood friend who becomes a potential love interest for Bellissima, his presence brings relief from the overwhelming heaviness of the past and offers a beacon of hope for a better future. He's a bright spot in her life and provides the comfort and support she desperately needs.

One of the core themes of Where Children Play is child abuse and its enduring effects on adult lives. The film isn't shy about shedding light on such real, harsh, and complicated subjects. By highlighting the struggles of its characters, the film makes an urgent call for understanding, sympathy, and change when it comes to issues around family dynamics, mental health, and communication.

Macy Gray delivers an impressive performance that truly showcases her ability to extend her talent beyond the musical stage. She gives life to her character, producing a portrayal that is raw, authentic, and incredibly touching. Teyonah Parris, known for her roles in acclaimed projects like Mad Men, is brilliant as Bellissima. The pain, confusion, and determination that she brings to her character form an emotional core around which the film orbits.

Director Leila Djansi, known for creating impactful narratives about the African American experience, employs her skills remarkably in this film. She brings a delicate, yet unflinching sensibility to the story, firmly addressing the issues at hand, while also providing space for sensitivity and healing. Djansi’s deft handling of the dynamics in Bellissima's family and the honesty with which she portrays their shortcomings and struggles is highly commendable.

In terms of cinematography, the film brilliantly juxtaposes the gloominess of the family home with the hopeful and comforting presence of the surrounding neighborhood. It gives a visual representation of Bellissima's personal journey, from grappling with her dark past to attempting to make a brighter future for herself and her family.

Where Children Play is a poignant and deeply touching drama that manages to strike a careful balance between exploring serious issues and providing cathartic release. Despite its seemingly grim storyline, the film leaves its viewers with a profound sense of hope. It is a testament to the power of resilience and the human capability of healing and forgive, no matter how cruel the past might have been. Allow yourself to be taken on this emotional journey of self-discovery, redemption, and the power of familial bonds in the face of adversity.