Emotional Depth Marks Autism-Focused Drama

Read Time:3 Minute, 19 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
When Time Got Louder
–

Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 53m
Director(s): Connie Cocchia
Writer(s): Connie Cocchia
Cast: Willow Shields, Lochlyn Munro, Elizabeth Mitchell, Jonathan Simao
Where To Watch: coming to select theaters and VOD November 17, 2023

RAVING REVIEW: Walking into WHEN TIME GOT LOUDER, I was immediately captivated by its honest and unadorned portrayal of a family navigating the challenges of autism. Director Connie Cocchia eschews the typical melodrama, opting for a grounded and authentic depiction of life’s complexities. This film doesn't just tug at your heartstrings; it plays a symphony on them.

Author note: I have a personal connection with autism within my family; I won’t lie; I was more than a little worried when I read the synopsis of the film. Thankfully, those concerns weren’t necessary; first and foremost, the performance by Jonathan Simao (who is actually on the spectrum himself) was outstanding and subdued. There was nothing that felt like a caricature, and that meant so much to me; the spectrum is an extensive range, and this could have gone wrong; luckily, that wasn’t the case here.

In Connie Cocchia’s first feature-length film, WHEN TIME GOT LOUDER, the story of a family facing the realities of autism unfolds with an authenticity that avoids the pitfalls of over-dramatization. Center stage is Abbie, portrayed by Willow Shields, whose life teeters between personal ambitions and responsibilities towards her non-verbal autistic brother, Kayden, a role Jonathan Simao brings to life with depth. Flashbacks stitch together the narrative, showcasing the duo’s passions in their life, symbolizing their intertwined dreams and deep bond.

Jonathan Simao’s portrayal of Kayden offers a window into the nuanced challenges of autism. His subtle and profound performance shines in the more demanding scenes depicting autism's complexities. His on-screen interactions, particularly with his sister, balance tenderness and poignancy, adding a layer of genuineness to the film.

Playing the parents, Tish and Mark Peterson, portrayed by Elizabeth Mitchell and Lochlyn Munro, infuse the storyline with a multi-layered emotional depth. Their performances capture the whirlwind of emotions of raising a child with special needs – a mix of fear, love, and frustration.

Director Cocchia’s approach, informed by personal experiences, injects an undeniable realism into the film. This sense of authenticity is bolstered by the dynamic performances across the cast, notably Shields and Simao, whose chemistry brings the sibling relationship to life in a very relatable and moving way.

WHEN TIME GOT LOUDER is not without its blemishes; some plot elements feel slightly forced, and specific scenes could benefit from a more realistic portrayal. Some moments veer into dramatization, slightly detracting from the film's authenticity. However, there are only a few moments in the film. It’s easy to see how much passion and care was given to the overall film; it feels like an intimate stage play brought to life.

WHEN TIME GOT LOUDER is a profound and moving depiction of a family's journey with autism; while the film has its imperfections, its strengths, particularly the compelling performances of its leads, all of the pieces help to elevate it into a memorable and touching portrayal of love, sacrifice, and family bonds. Cocchia's debut signals the arrival of a filmmaker with a keen eye for capturing the nuanced tapestry of human connections, making this film a must-see for those who cherish cinema that not only entertains but also enlightens and connects.

For more reviews, please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestmr

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of GRAVITAS VENTURES]