MOVIE REVIEW
Adrianne & the Castle
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 26m
Director(s): Shannon Walsh
Where To Watch: world premiere at the 2024 SXSW Film Festival; for more information, visit www.intuitivepictures.ca

RAVING REVIEW: Welcome to the heart of Illinois (the s is silent) with ADRIANNE & THE CASTLE; viewers are treated to an enchanting and genuine blend of heartfelt storytelling and artistic innovation. Directed by Shannon Walsh, this documentary navigates the life of Alan St-George, whose homage to his late wife, Adrianne, transforms their shared dream into a vivid reality. This film is a canvas where personal tales of devotion meet the expansive power of creativity, painting a picture that’s both intimate and grand.

The film's charm lies in its ability to intertwine Walsh’s narrative of loss with the unwavering love story of Alan and Adrianne, creating a rich tapestry of emotion and beauty. Set against the quaint backdrop of Savanna, Illinois (a quick two-hour trip south for me, which has now been added to my bucket list!), it proves that love and creativity know no bounds, blossoming in places and ways one least expects. Havencrest Castle proves that even states in the Midwest have hidden gems; after spending most of my life here, I had never heard of this infamous home!

As the story unfolds, the discovery of Alan’s mission through Walsh’s connection with Laurel Sprengelmeyer adds a personal dimension, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of storytelling and its capacity to connect lives. Alan’s evolution from an ambitious student to the creator of Havencrest Castle is depicted as a tribute to love and a monumental testament to the power of human creativity and determination. Passion and unbridled imagination are the keys to Alan’s journey through life, pushing the boundaries of what others consider “normal” to the utmost extremes. To think, it all started with “a frog’s head” and has ended up as this almost dreamlike endgame.

Walsh’s directorial style delicately balances the documentary, engaging the audience in reflecting on the complexities of life, love, and art. ADRIANNE & THE CASTLE transcends mere documentary filmmaking, inviting viewers to ponder the lasting impact of love and the depths of human expression.

Nonetheless, the documentary sometimes dives further than most are prepared for, with specific sequences tipping more into fantastical indulgence than contributing to the overarching narrative. Even so, these moments are few and far between, and the overall narrative, enriched with emotion, depth, and visual storytelling, more than compensates for these occasional lapses.

The documentary's auditory landscape, enriched by Richard Reed Parry’s music and inspired by Sprengelmeyer’s influence, creates an almost dream-like quality throughout the film. This musical accompaniment seamlessly blends with the storyline, enhancing the viewer's journey through imagination and reality.

ADRIANNE & THE CASTLE is a poignant exploration of art as a conduit for healing and hope. Despite occasional pacing hiccups, the documentary shines as a beacon of inspiration, illustrating how love and loss can forge a legacy of unparalleled beauty. Shannon Walsh invites the audience to see beyond the surface, embrace the transformative power of creativity, and acknowledge the myriad ways love shapes and enriches our lives.

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[photo courtesy of INTUITIVE PICTURES]

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