Cinema Voyage - Michael Pearson

This blog is PRIMARILY about movies. Some dvd and some that are still in the theater. Also, links are provided on some movies if you decide you want to purchase it. Also, I write and read quite a bit. So, you may, from time to time see a book review here from an up-and-coming author or an interview with one. If you have a book that you have written, please don't hesitate to contact me if you want an unbiased opinion. I would be happy to read and review what you've written. We should value our creative people more.

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Review - Things We Lost In The Fire

March 31st 2009 02:31

Released in 2007, Things We Lost In The Fire stars two Academy Award winners - namely Halle Berry and Benicio Del Toro. Written by Allan Loeb, the raw drama deals head on with grief after death and drug addiction.

Halle Berry is Audrey Burke, mother to Harper and Dory and grieving widow to her husband, Brian (David Duchovny), who recently died in a tragic shooting. Prior to the funeral, Audrey realises she has forgotten to notify her husband's closest childhood friend, Jerry Sunborne about Brian's death. Jerry is a heroin addict living in a halfway house and while not liked by Audrey, was always supported by Brian. Out of a sense of loyalty to Brian that she can't even fathom, she offers to let Jerry stay in the family's garage.

Audrey's hatred for Jerry is deep rooted and at one point she even says to Jerry "Why wasn't it you, Jerry? Why wasn't it you?" Harper and Dory warm to Jerry immediately and their relationship is a constant reminder of Brian's death. Much to Audrey's annoyance, Jerry even succeeds in getting Dory to put his underwater in the swimming pool, which was something even Brian could not succeed in doing. "It was something that Brian tried and tried to get Dory to do, but he couldn't. And that victory today of getting Dory's head to go under was not supposed to be YOURS. It wasn't meant for you to have that moment.

Their relationship ebbs and flows throughout the film. He supports her as best he can to help her come to terms with the death of her husband and she offers her support for his drug addiction. At no point throughout the film does Jerry presume that he could ever step in and fill his friend's shoes which keeps it cemented in realism.

The performances offered by the entire cast are superb, particularly that of Benicio Del Toro. His portrayal as Jerry both as an addict and recovering addict comes across as very honest. John Carroll Lynch, who also worked with Halle Berry in 2003's Gothika, is Howard, Audrey's neighbour and friend. He is a good all rounder offering constant support to both Audrey and Jerry. Unfortunately for him he lives with his overbearing wife who he hates with a passion. His role however does bring a small comedic touch to the film. Alison Lohman also has a supporting role as Kelly, recovering drug addict, and friend to Jerry.

Danish director Susanne Bier previously gained international acclaim for her Oscar nominated film After The Wedding in 2006. She shows off her skill in managing to capture a very up close and personal film, particularly in light of her signature handheld camera work.

This is a slow moving film but despite the depressing subject matter, seems to err on the positive side ultimately being about recovery and healing.

Voyage Review: 4/5

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Posted By: Michelle Sweeney - Category: Drama

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