Kindling

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.

"Sid" (George Somner) has had a terminal diagnosis and in light of this news, assembles four of his lifelong friends so they can all see him off in style. He's still perfectly mobile and so decides that he wants each of them to bring something that connects them and him to an almighty bonfire they will build so they can give love, friendship, family, setting and home all a baptism of fire. His plan is to ensure that this provides the ultimate memorial and it's as they set about this task that we discover what really makes these lads tick and take a look at just why their bond is so strong. Obviously, tensions and emotions are running high not just with his pals, but his parents Geoff Bell and Tara Fitzgerald are also having to deal with a man, not a boy, who is determined not to just sit indoors and wait. Things become even more complicated when he meets "Lily" (Mia McKenna-Bruce). There's an hint of romance but he decides to try to keep it secret from his friends and maybe his best pal "Diggs" (Wilson Mbimio) takes that hardest. In the end, though, the question of whether the group will emerge intact at their conflagration isn't really in doubt. Indeed, jeopardy isn't really the point here. It's a poignant exposition of male behaviour that demonstrates that men can have solid and enduring relationships with each other. They can be just as possessive, jealous and irrational as so many chick-flicks have shown us over the years, and there's something really quite honest about that, here. Somner delivers engagingly as does Mbimio and Bell as his troubled but stoic-minded dad and the story moves solidly along. There aren't many contemporary movies where men say "I love you" and it not make me grimace. Here - well it worked.

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.

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.

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."