Butterfly

This independent crime drama portrays the journey of a young mother striving to rebuild her life and reunite with her son. The film encapsulates a raw, authentic, and poignant narrative. Melanie Elise delivers a captivating performance as Butterfly, a homeless mother grappling with adversity, poverty, and the underbelly of society following the loss of her son, Milo. The filmmakers skillfully capture the harsh realities of life, showcasing a side rarely explored by mainstream studios. The selection of locations significantly enhances the film's gritty yet captivating visual appeal. The innovative soundtrack stands out as a commendable aspect. Kudos to the entire team for their exceptional efforts in bringing this compelling story to life.

This indie crime drama about a young mother trying to hold her life together and regain custody of her son is gritty, true to life and beautiful. Melanie Elise is the lead as Butterfly, a young homeless mother navigating poverty, unemployment and crime after losing her son Milo. The filmmakers did a nice job of showing the gritty, seedy, not so pretty side of life in a way that studio filmmakers just don't do these days. The locations also play a big role in this movie and really help to give it that gritty yet beautiful look. I really like some of the choices and use of lighting. Hats off to everyone involved.

This was a well written indie film that actually made me feel good! What a great story! I loved the main character, Rhee; She was so believable and perfectly cast. I cared about her, was cheering for her the whole film, and thoroughly engaged watching her journey play out. I enjoyed a lot of the other characters as well and thought they were cast well and the actors did a good job embodying them. The film definitely sends a message of hope to people trying climb out of a tough place and how values can play into that. If you're looking for an uplifting film about overcoming struggles, I highly recommend this one, it won't disappoint.

Have you ever seen a movie that from start to finish in every way was done for the right reasons? Butterfly is that movie. The writing, directing, acting - all of it done without ego or self importance. The story is deeply felt, kind and thrilling all without being exploitative and without sparing the harsh realities that women like Butterly face every day. The characters that inhabit her world are rich, surprising and true. The performances are sincere and no-holds-barred. The writing is cavernous and winding with a finale that could sit right alongside the best works of other directors like Sean Baker or Craig Brewer. The directing isn't flashy or braggadocios. It exists to present these people and their environment as layered and soulful. This is the best kind of independent film. A breath of fresh air in 2024's cinematic landscape.

Butterfly is a powerful drama that will really stay with you after the credits roll. It follows the story of a young woman's struggle with poverty, homelessness, employment, and above all, her love for her young son and her never ending quest to legally regain custody of him. The movie has some really powerful and emotional scenes, and it is truly an epic journey. I really liked the soundtrack throughout, there are some really great pieces of music in here. The cinematography was strong as well. The locations in this film were really interesting and it really takes you on a journey all around the city. Well done all around.