I was privileged to see Albany Road at a special screening in LA and then at the movies at AMC Theaters. This is a film with so much heart and soul all played out to a moving soundtrack of Aretha Franklin's B-Side classics. Writer/Director Christine Swanson consistently tells stories that encompass the most universal themes. This one is about love, second changes and forgiveness. Because it's the bitterness we hold onto that blocks us. And I feel like forgiving someone and letting go is one of the BIGGEST lessons we as humans can learn.
I loved the writing, directing, acting and music! It's no wonder this is a family affair with Christine's husband, Michael Swanson producing. And I think her kids worked as interns. You feel the authenticity in the characters and the sets, and the actors have such INCREDIBLE chemistry. It feels like it was made with a lot of love.
Renee Elise Goldsberry (Hamilton) is so beautiful and so talented. It was awesome to see her in a leading lady role; she deserves more. And J Alfonse (P Valley) is been a fine chocolate drip. Omg!!! The two of them together!! Fire! And let's talk about Ms. Lynn Whitfield. She turns in an Oscar-worthy performance in this movie. Two scenes that blew me away in the movie are the Lynn Whitfield "discovery" scene (no spoilers) and that dinner scene! Whew. I laughed, I cried, I was on a roller coaster of emotions. There were such unique touches like the Amish couple singing and also the host being Vegan (can you say dinner at Tabitha Brown's???). Lol.
But I especially loved seeing Black love on screen in such an authentic way. This movie was so full of hope. It had Black love, Black joy but also grief, hurt, and healing. There is something very spiritual about the movie although it did not hit you over the head with preaching. I came out of it thinking about my own life and not wanting to make mistakes like holding onto unforgiveness. For me, this film is a classic along with the greats like "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," "Love, Actually," "Best Man" and "Steel Magnolias." I could and will watch it over and over again. Bravo!!!
