Emotional Depths Explored in Sibling Saga

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MOVIE REVIEW
How I Learned to Fly
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 44m
Director(s): Simon Steuri
Writer(s): Simon Steuri
Cast: Marcus Scribner, Lonnie Chavis, Method Man, Cedric the Entertainer, Michele Selene Ang, Crystal Bush
Where To Watch: available on all leading Digital Platforms on February 20, 2024, including iTunes, Amazon, and Vudu

RAVING REVIEW: Authenticity and emotional grounding are what create the world of HOW I LEARNED TO FLY. In your introduction to the film, you’re in for a narrative that’s as much about the heart as it is about the art of cinema. It’s a film that looks deep into the soul, exploring the lives of Daniel (Marcus Scribner) and Eli Davis (Lonnie Chavis) with performances that make every scene resonate with emotion. Director Simon Steuri brings a personal touch that adds depth, making this film a viewing experience and a journey.

In modern cinema, it’s rare to find a film that so eloquently balances the scales of raw emotion and narrative exploration. HOW I LEARNED TO FLY achieves this with a unique and moving finesse. At its heart is the story of two brothers, portrayed by Scribner and Chavis, navigating the choppy waters of life abandonment and the reality of life on their own.

Steuri, in his feature film debut, tells a story that’s close to his heart, one that resonates with his own experiences of seclusion. His unique blend of personal narrative and broader societal commentary, especially on race and class, is refreshing and thought-provoking. He elevates the film from a mere personal recount to a detailed examination of societal dynamics.

Scribner, stepping away from his comedic persona in BLACK-ISH (one of the best series on TV,) delivers a performance as Daniel rich in nuance and emotional depth. Chavis, as Eli, complements this with a portrayal filled with vulnerability and tenderness. Together, they weave a believable and poignant picture of brotherhood.

The film’s casting further enhances its impact, with Method Man delivering a powerful performance as the father, adding a gritty intensity to the narrative. Cedric, the Entertainer, brings a different energy, lightening the film’s somber moments and showcasing the breadth of his talent as Louis.

Steuri’s cinematic craftsmanship shines through in the visual storytelling of HOW I LEARNED TO FLY. His background in music videos and commercials lends a visually poetic dimension to the film, enhancing its emotional resonance. The film’s cinematography is an integral part of the storytelling, enriching the viewer’s experience.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to mix these personal stories with universal themes. It serves as a poignant reminder of human resilience and the enduring power of familial bonds. The exploration of themes such as survival, brotherhood, and finding beauty in harsh realities elevates HOW I LEARNED TO FLY, making it a standout in the coming-of-age genre.

HOW I LEARNED TO FLY is more than just a movie; it’s a journey through the complexities of human emotions and relationships. Its blend of great performances, insightful direction, and compelling storytelling underscores the transformative power of cinema. This film does more than entertain; it invites viewers to an emotional odyssey long after the final scene. It’s a cinematic experience that’s heartwarming and thought-provoking, a true gem in the landscape of modern filmmaking.

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[photo courtesy of FILM MOVEMENT]