Finding Jenua

Finding Jenua is a touching work of art that tells the story of one woman's descent into memory loss and another's new found connection to the world and people around her. This film gently shows how relationships bloom out of the unlikeliest places. Mixing humor with human sadness, the characters are well-fleshed out and easily draw you into their own worlds. You want to go on the journey with them and the filmmaker takes you there, guiding you through the pitfalls of the characters' lives while letting you know, it's OK to be human, even if one if very frail. Both lead actresses are mesmerizing, so different and yet their chemistry is palpable. When they are on screen together, I found I could not look away. The subject matter is so relevant and anyone who has an elderly grandparent or relative in their lives can relate. With all the terribly written and overproduced drivel out there, Finding Jenua is a refreshing piece of work by a new and exciting filmmaker.

Allison Mason does a wonderful job of telling the story, adeptly weaving the past and present in a way that makes each character's story unfold seamlessly and glues you to the screen. I was particularly taken by Gayle James' "Edie" who says little ( e.g. to Cal -- "You talk to much.") when she speaks aloud, but communicates loudly with her eyes and expressions. Leigh Rose is superb as well. She creates just enough dissonance in her character to make you a bit uneasy, but manages to become endearing before the film ends. It is a truly touching film of love & loss ( of both relationship and memory; survival & strength; and of character and compassion.

I saw this film at a film festival recently and loved it. I can't compliment this movie enough to do it justice, so i recommend seeing it when you get the chance. This story is touching, heartbreaking, humorous, and very well written. I was completely drawn in by it's well developed characters and beautiful direction. The dialogue is so natural and organic that i felt many times as if i were actually sitting in the scenes listening to real conversations. As the young girl in the film evolves with her love for the older woman so did mine. Keep an eye on this Director/Writer because i think we are going to see some outstanding work coming from her in the future. The song in the end title was perfect for the film and really bookended the piece nicely. Cheers to the cast and crew!!!