MOVIE REVIEW
The Moon & Back
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Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 14m
Director(s): Leah Bleich
Writer(s): Leah Bleich
Cast: Isabel May, P.J. Byrne, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Nat Faxon, Missi Pyle
Where To Watch: on Demand and Digital April 23, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: THE MOON & BACK pulls you into its beautifully melancholic world, where the impacts of loss and the power of creative redemption intertwine. This film offers a fresh take on the classic coming-of-age narrative through the eyes of Lydia, who channels her grief into making a film written by her late father. Isabel May’s portrayal of Lydia blends a palpable sense of loss with a fierce determination to connect with her father's legacy, setting the tone for a uniquely touching story.

THE MOON & BACK explores Lydia’s quest to bring her father's last screenplay to life. Set against the backdrop of a genuinely indie film—more makeshift than Hollywood—Lydia’s journey resonates with charm and earnestness. May captivates as she embodies Lydia’s dual battle with her demons and the practical challenges of low-budget filmmaking while striving for perfection. Her performance poignantly captures the essence of a daughter trying to forge a path forward while honoring her past.

Missi Pyle, as Diane, delivers a lowkey performance that captures a mother's struggle to support her daughter's project while wrestling with her grief. The dynamic between mother and daughter is rich with emotion, making this journey a central pillar of the film’s narrative. Lydia’s friendship with Simon, portrayed by Miles Gutierrez-Riley, adds a crucial subplot, reminding audiences that sometimes friends can provide new perspectives, especially during our lowest moments.

Under Leah Bleich’s direction, THE MOON & BACK navigate the delicate balance between heartache and humor. Bleich handles the film’s tonal shifts, ensuring the lighter moments don't detract from the storyline’s deeper emotional currents.

The film's emotional core is further elevated by Nat Faxon’s portrayal of Lydia’s father, mostly seen through old video footage. This choice enhances the film’s emotion and creatively anchors Lydia's motivation to bring her father’s vision to the screen. It’s a reminder of how past and present can merge in the most heartfelt ways.

Lydia and her crew's resourcefulness exemplifies the quintessential indie film spirit—making more with less. Their behind-the-scenes efforts are portrayed with a sincerity that speaks to the authenticity and heart of indie filmmaking.

Navigating its ambitious themes with finesse, THE MOON & BACK avoids the pitfalls of cliché, offering instead a grounded and sincere exploration of growing up, facing loss, and embracing creativity. The film’s ability to weave these elements into a cohesive and relatable narrative elevates it above standard indie fare and makes it a significant contribution to independent cinema. It takes the coming-of-age story and makes it exactly that!

THE MOON & BACK isn’t just about making a film; it explores the transformative power of art and the enduring influence of family. With Leah Bleich at the helm, the film achieves a resonant storytelling experience that captures the complexities of adolescence, grief, and artistic aspiration. It is a poignant, compelling watch that reminds us of the cathartic power of storytelling and the resilience required to tell those stories.

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[photo courtesy of LIONSGATE]

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