Kindling (2023) User Reviews

Maudlin Porn

[fostrhod · 5/10 · 18 April 2023]

Kindling 2023. It's great to go to the cinema, watching a well made movie when it's a riveting exciting story, it is a great form of escapism. Sometime the film doesn't even have to be exciting, but interesting to make it thought provoking or a challenge. This film was neither.

What's even better is when your given a free ticket (thanks sis), so by default I didn't spend any money on the movie. Although I did go have a couple of beers, a gherkin and a pickled egg with my mate John afterwards (all true) so it wasn't all bad.

What of the film I hear you cry, the premise is quite simple a group of five friends who reunite to spend one last summer before one of their group dies. That's it really, think of every film about people with a terminal disease well all the cliché's are here. Well this film is maudlin in its delivery and what is aimed to be a celebration of Sid the central character becomes a long drawn out cliché of a hearse of a movie . 5/10.

Heart Wrenchingly Hopeful

[Matthew_Randall · 8/10 · 28 March 2023]

Kindling is the most uplifting film about death I've ever seen. Throughout the course of the story, we peer into these beautiful moments of serenity in companionship. Boys walking through a field just for the sake of it, a young man and women swimming in a lake, simply to swim, and a mother washing the dishes with a helpful man. Connor crafted this film from a very personal experience, as he too has lost people very dear to him. His maturity on the subject is truly the golden center of Kindling. Especially through the entourage of friends pouring out their emotions in some of the most vulnerable scenes I've seen on screen. I could go on... The acting is phenomenal. I personally found Geoff to stand out in his roll as the Father trying to connect. David Wright's Cinematography is stellar throughout giving a warm, safe atmosphere. Harry Brokensha's score swells with the emotional moments perfectly. Connor's script ties it all together. This film has some laughs, some awe, and plenty of tears. I couldn't recommend this enough.

A beautifully made film about life

[mikeyrthomas · 10/10 · 19 April 2023]

An unusual perspective on male emotion, Kindling is sensitively written, sympathetically directed and beautifully shot, with some excellent performances.

We follow the characters though a short summer and we are shown their depth and development as they come to terms with the sad reality of their loved one imminent passing.

The actors put in performances that show they really believe in the story this film is telling, so it is unfair to pick any individual out for praise, as they are all deserving.

And hats off to the young director, Connor O'Hara, who shines a light on this often hidden subject.

I defy you not to be moved by this thoughtful film.

Beautiful

[jkpjennings · 10/10 · 28 March 2023]

This film has a special place in my heart after watching, from the beautiful and stunning competition and witty cinematography, to the charming and comforting relationship that the characters have with each-other. Kindling had an effect on me which was total emersion in the film. The colour grade gives your eyes a visual hug along with the magnificent score that only heightens the grip that the film has on you. This film brings comfort to those who have lost a loved one to cancer and helps educate people on how it can effect friends and family as well as the individual who is unwell

A story that makes you reflect, laugh, cry and appreciate those in your life.

A beautiful and unique film.

[elainegwynne · 10/10 · 21 April 2023]

Kindling is a film about a serious topic, but made with a beautiful light touch. I loved all the characters, who are so natural and real. Director Connor Ohara clearly had a fantastic relationship with his amazing cast and crew, and this shines through, the friendships and relationships between the characters feels so real. The cinematography is beautiful, of the gorgeous English countryside. The music is moving and uplifting, and enhances the film perfectly.

Kindling manages to deal with a tough subject in a sensitive, non indulgent way. It ultimately is a film about lasting love, friendship and hope. The positive emotions from this film will stay with me. I highly recommend watching it.

A CLASSIC IN EVERY WAY

[gazza-31833 · 10/10 · 22 April 2023]

Maybe it was more powerful because I was familiar with it beforehand.

I found it gripping. Compelling. I wanted to hear every word. I wanted to see and take in every scene from a photographic impact point of view. Both from the scenes value to the whole and its visual affect on my consciousness and emotions. Also as one whose whole life has been concerned with imagery. My early years were comics , were about stories in pictures , about visual impact and few words.

Interestingly from that point of view it was very powerful. I suspect without sound it would still work and the message would still be there. Then obviously silent movies had to have impact and get the story across , to keep you interested.

Kindling kept me glued to the screen in a trance.

Was it because I have had two near misses recently ? They say a cat has 9 lives and I have lost many including

Surviving Meningitis , leukaemia and Heart Attack.

So maybe it meant more to me than others.

You can safely be sure that it was a Film I totally related to from that point of view.

Then there is the loss of loved ones. I believe we live on in everyone we have ever met and shared time with. And they live on in us.

Touching

[hillier_family · 9/10 · 10 May 2023]

Kindling

What a refreshing change, to see a film tackling a sad but very real issue that many of us will cross swords with at some point in our lives.

It opens a window on a small group of family and freinds, one of whom has a terminal illness, it never focuses on a single person but we are allowed to see how this impacts on everyone in their own way.

It's a first time out for this production team and yes, there are some things that could have been slightly different or the odd tweek here and there. The important thing is to "watch this space", thankfully they aren't going away and personally I'm looking forward to seeing much more of this realistic film making, telling life stories with tact and dignity. Thank you Lowkey Films, we want more!

This is so Real - Every Character and almost Every Scene About being 18 Now.

[tony-90710 · 10/10 · 19 April 2024]

Describing it about friends and family and one of the kids, preparing for his "death", being supported , by his friends and family, and a girl he has just met, does not do it justice...

Though its all true...Life Really is like this.

This is Children's Growing Up Bliss in England, when you realise you are a Teenager - Every Character's Emotional Vulnerability explored, but not in a nasty way, but with Love.

How can you not love this movie, if you were ever a teenager. So many concepts are explored re life and death and the cosmos, and time and the universe and what happens next.

I don't know what happens next, cos I am only half way through the film.

Beautiful.

10.

Great Film

[beskardes · 10/10 · 26 April 2023]

Kindling is a heartwarming film that tells the story of a group of young men who reunite to celebrate the life of their terminally ill friend. The film explores themes of friendship, love, and acceptance in a poignant and touching way.

The characters are well-developed and each one brings a unique personality to the group. The interactions between them feel authentic and the chemistry between the actors is evident. The film successfully portrays the bittersweet moments of life and the importance of cherishing the time we have with our loved ones.

The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of the town where the story takes place. The soundtrack is also noteworthy, with the music adding an emotional depth to the film.

Overall, Kindling is a touching and beautifully made film that will leave you feeling grateful for the people in your life. It is a celebration of life and friendship, and a reminder to cherish every moment we have. Highly recommended.

Heartwarming and Thought Provoking

[simonmhaupt · 10/10 · 26 April 2023]

I was properly tearing up at the end of this one! No spoilers but that last scene... <3

A great film exploring some of society's preconceptions of masculinity. Took me right back to my years as a teenage lad and made me reflect on how things have changed since then. Also on a very practical level this film serves as a poignant reminder to regularly check yourself for lumps.

Solid performances all round and a couple of twists in the story keep your expectations guessing. Love the soundtrack as well - Harry Brokensha's beautiful score is complimented by bangers from the likes of Wolf Alice and Bear's Den.

Rollercoaster!

[h_margetts · 10/10 · 22 April 2023]

In the first 16 minutes I smiled, cried and laughed!

It's a film we can all relate to, highlights the importance of Talking to each other as a way of support and death not being the elephant in the room. The acting is awesome, the locations are beautiful, the music is a pleasure. It's an important message for us all, please watch it xx let's remove the stigma, be vulnerable, be brave, be courageous - this will help us and support us with dealing with the difficult things in life. It a film we can all relate to, that we should encourage our friends, family and children to watch.

What a wonderful film, thank you for being so raw and sharing your story.

Captivating screenplay, couldn't stop watching this beautiful and heart wrenching movie

[georginakscott · 10/10 · 22 April 2023]

Really enjoyed the lovely cinematography of this deeply moving story of young friends facing the tough realities of life with humour and love. Well worth the watch and caused me to shed a tear but to be left with a warm smile too. Beautifully filmed with some really picturesque camera angles, reminds us of how beautiful the English countryside is in the warmth of the summer sun and of how quickly life can change. Makes you want to grab your loved ones and hug them tight! The actors are so natural and sincere in their delivery of the story lines. The mature themes are conveyed with humour and depth. It's a high recommendation from me!

A testament to the enduring power of friendship

[emmaramsay-74967 · 10/10 · 6 October 2023]

In a world where fast-paced action and special effects often dominate cinema, Kindling is a refreshing departure. It's a heartfelt and touching reminder that sometimes the most powerful stories are the ones that touch our hearts and leave a lasting impact. This film is a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the importance of celebrating life, making it a must-see for anyone seeking a meaningful cinematic experience.

What truly sets this film apart is its ability to remind us of the importance of living life to the fullest, even in the face of adversity. It encourages us to appreciate the simple joys, relish meaningful conversations, and value the friendships that shape our lives.

Fantastic, moving film

[rachel-holloway-80631 · 10/10 · 7 May 2023]

We really enjoyed this film. The characters were very believable and drew you into the story. It was very moving and I both laughed and cried. We loved the cinematography and how images conveyed meaning without the need for dialogue. The music was inspired and really added to the atmosphere of the film. The essence of the story was clearly conveyed through the narrative without the need to overly state it and our awareness was subtly developed as the story unfolded. The friendships were well developed and meaningful. The vulnerabilities of the boys were cleverly revealed throughout the film and the introduction of a female character added a different dimension to the relationships and a hint of possible romance. The story was thoughtfully and carefully crafted and left us reflecting on the issues it raised. It's a film for everyone but particularly important for young men to watch and reflect on. We congratulate Connor making this fantastic film.

Immensely beautiful

[bellagrieve · 9/10 · 2 May 2023]

One of the most beautifully shot pieces. The use of colouring and sound seal the atmosphere of vulnerability and also strength that give Kindling the essence of real human life and feeling.

The portrayal of male friendship and fatherhood unfurl the status quo in a tender manner that expresses the necessity for people to breathe, unfortified.

Somner's performance balances fear, wonder and bravery; every emotion one in Sid's position may experience. Bell's performance allows a deeper look into a father's love for his son, beyond the filter of stereotypes.

Last but not least, the complete capturing of 'home' and what it means. The fear of the unknown weathered by home: "I don't know where you're off to next, but here's a map of home."