With Child

With Child is a meaningful and poignant drama-comedy movie released in 2014, directed by Titus Heckel. The film showcases the compelling performances of well-known actors such as Kerry van der Griend, Leslie Lewis, and Lori Kokotailo, who bring their characters to life with convincing authenticity.

With Child begins with the story of the central character, Auden Price, played by Kerry van der Griend. Auden is a construction worker and a dad-to-be, struggling to make sense of his life under challenging circumstances. The plot takes an exciting twist when he is left alone to be a single parent, even before his child is born. Auden grapples with understanding parenthood and dealing with his personal grief simultaneously, making the narrative both engaging and poignant.

The film chronicles Auden's transformation from a rugged construction worker to a doting father, a journey made more complicated because of his shy and introverted nature. Auden's character is nuanced and complex; he is someone who is down on his luck and grieving, a reluctant hero who life abruptly pushes into an alien world of pending fatherhood. Kerry van der Griend gives a compelling performance as Auden, skillfully portraying the character's inner turmoil and struggle.

At work, Auden navigates his job at a construction site, a place far removed from the gentle nuances of impending fatherhood. But he succeeds in steering this tricky terrain with the help of some remarkable characters he meets across his journey. These strong supporting characters enhance the storyline, bringing in moments of laughter, camaraderie, and a deep sense of humanity.

One character that particularly stands out is Angela, portrayed brilliantly by Leslie Lewis. Angela emerges as a beacon of support and friendship in Auden's life. Her engaging personality, coupled with her lived wisdom and caring nature, offer Auden the guidance and companionship he desperately needs in this testing phase of life.

Lori Kokotailo pulls off a warm and convincing performance as Dr. Mayfield. Her character, though professional on the outside, shows understanding and compassion that goes beyond her medical duties, offering a comforting presence in Auden's turbulent life.

With Child is unique in how it blends moments of humor with layers of emotional depth. The narrative delves deep into the chaos and joy of impending parenthood. The director beautifully captures the nuances of human relationships and the spirit of resilience, even in the face of adversity.

The cinematography complements the storyline, encapsulating the everyday struggles and moments of an ordinary man transitioning into a role that he is initially unequipped for. The movie doesn’t romanticize parenthood; instead, it elegantly showcases the raw, real, and emotional journey towards it, making it relatable and engaging for the audience.

The film also brings to the forefront the societal expectations of masculinity, subtly challenging the stereotype through Auden's character. It showcases a man's vulnerability, his capacity to care, love and adapt to life's twists and turns. It shines a light on a non-traditional father figure, pushing against the boundaries of societal expectations and making it a bold representation of modern-day fatherhood.

In essence, With Child is a touching exploration of grief, friendship, and personal growth. The movie underscores that life can spring surprises when least expected and highlights the power of human resilience and adaptability. Thus, While With Child can be considered a movie about fatherhood, it goes beyond its central theme, offering wonderful insights into human behavior, societal norms, and the complexity of life.

Overall, With Child brings us an enticing experience of drama-comedy, underpinned by its thought-provoking narrative, compelling performances, and exceptional storytelling. This heartwarmingly authentic portrayal of life’s unexpected journeys is sure to leave audiences laughing, crying, and most importantly, thinking. It's a must-watch, for not just parents or parent-to-be, but anyone who enjoys cinematic brilliance.