Happy 40th

Happy 40th (2015) was written, produced, and directed by Madoka Raine. (She also is one of the leading actors.)

Ms. Raine has enormous talents, energy, and enthusiasm. The film was definitely an indie, but it didn't have a "We have no money, so overlook the flaws" sense to it. It was professionally shot and edited, and the acting was great.

Three women friends gather for the 40th birthday at the home of their mutual friend. The only problem is that their friend is now in a wheelchair. Each of the women has problems, and these problems come to light as the movie progresses.

There's not much more I can say about the plot without spoiling the film for people reading this review. I hope that, once you've read the review, you'll want to see this movie. It's has distribution, but it might be a while before it's available for the small screen. We saw this film at Rochester's Little Theatre as part of the High Falls Film Festival. It will work better on a large screen, so look for it at festivals. If you can't find it, wait until it's available, but don't forget about it. You don't want to miss it--it's too good.

P.S. Madoka Raine was in Rochester for the screening of the movie, and I got a chance to speak to her afterward. Her character in the film is ravaged by a terrible personal loss, and by too many uppers and downers. She looks much older than the other three women. However, in real life she is far more youthful. She told me that the ravages were partly caused by lack of sleep during the filming, but mostly by makeup. Also, of course, by great acting.

I was hesitant about watching this movie after I read the summary only because I was feeling down and wanted more of a pick-me-up theme. I was so glad I went ahead decided to view it as it not only picked me up, but took me down and around and back up again. The acting was amazing - pure, electric, emotive, realistic, passionate, convincing, and at times even playful.

I thoroughly enjoyed this movie - it made me think and dig through layers of what my expectations would be for myself, my spouse and friends were I to encounter the same life- altering challenges the characters in the movie were forced to deal with.

The actors became the characters - their skills were such that, at times I was so immersed in a particular scene, I felt like I was in the same room with them.

Also, the directing was fantastic. (Contrary to what a previous comment stated, I thought the director looked about the same age as the other women in this movie).

I plan on seeing this movie again!

If you want to feel bad about life and humanity watch this.

I was a little wary with the lack of reviews but it's a really good film!

Highly recommend it. Don't let the lack of reviews put you off.

Also as someone disabled, I liked it addressed disabled people as well which many films don't include.