In this early short film by Todd Field ("In the Bedroom", "Tár"), he and writer Serena Rathbun tells us the cute yet dark themed story
about a boy (Travis Martin) who is helped by his best friend (Heather Ramsey) trying to cope with his mother's passing. He doesn't understand
much about death and seems to wait for his mother to reappear, but the girl finds ways to distract from the issue and try to enjoy Halloween
night along with their other friends.
It's a little sentimental at times, but it's mostly told in a straightfoward, serious manner, only lighting up a bit when the group of friends distract themselves at the beach, or when they finally go for "trick or treat" time with the girl picking up a most unusual Halloween costume. There's humor, drama and a little bit of thrills that aren't worth mentioning yet it's quite a big surprise. But no problem, kids should watch this film as a form of reflection on serious issues and how adults and children can find ways to express themselves while talking death, loss and recovery. Strange as it is, when it ended I didn't put much thought about it; writing about it now it almost me tear up and watch again.
A highly effective by Mr. Field and one little treasure to sought. 8/10.
It's a little sentimental at times, but it's mostly told in a straightfoward, serious manner, only lighting up a bit when the group of friends distract themselves at the beach, or when they finally go for "trick or treat" time with the girl picking up a most unusual Halloween costume. There's humor, drama and a little bit of thrills that aren't worth mentioning yet it's quite a big surprise. But no problem, kids should watch this film as a form of reflection on serious issues and how adults and children can find ways to express themselves while talking death, loss and recovery. Strange as it is, when it ended I didn't put much thought about it; writing about it now it almost me tear up and watch again.
A highly effective by Mr. Field and one little treasure to sought. 8/10.
