Memory, Loss, and Love Captured
MOVIE REVIEW
Time Passages
–
Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024, 2025
Runtime: 1h 26m
Director(s): Kyle Henry
Where To Watch: in select theaters beginning January 31, 2025
RAVING REVIEW: In the short period since the beginning of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, few films about it have caught the genuineness and horrors as part of the story as this did. Looking back at the past often means confronting a mix of nostalgia, love, and loss. TIME PASSAGES is an ambitious documentary that blends the profoundly personal with innovative storytelling, as Kyle Henry explores his relationship with his mother, Elaine, during her final years. The isolating backdrop of the pandemic reshapes the film; Henry creates a striking and emotionally raw narrative that unpacks the complex dynamics of memory and connection. This journey is a broader meditation on documenting, preserving, and interpreting the most significant moments of our lives.
From the outset, it’s clear that Henry is not afraid to take risks with his storytelling approach. The film fuses a variety of visual mediums—grainy Super 8 footage, family photographs, voicemail recordings, and meticulously staged reenactments using childhood toys. These elements work together to form a tapestry of images and moments that feel deeply personal and universally relatable. Using figurines to recreate pivotal family events is exceptionally creative, adding a layer of whimsy that contrasts beautifully with the film’s weightier themes. Combining these styles, Henry crafts a story that feels alive, constantly shifting between past and present.
At its heart, TIME PASSAGES examines the unique bond between Henry and Elaine. As the youngest in a large family, Henry's connection with his mother was distinct, shaped by years spent as her companion while his older siblings moved away. This relationship takes center stage as Henry revisits phone calls, voicemails, and virtual interactions during the pandemic when physical closeness was nearly impossible for families separated by restrictions. These scenes capture the ache of distance and the small comfort of maintaining contact however possible. Most responsible people can feel a connection here, whether this meant holidays via Zoom, or masked porch dropoffs.
While the personal aspects of the film are compelling, Henry also uses his story to touch on broader cultural and historical themes. By interweaving Elaine’s life story with the history of Kodak and the damage done to a community, the film highlights the tools and methods families have used to preserve their memories. From the innovations that made capturing moments accessible to controversies surrounding the company’s environmental impact, this exploration adds to the narrative. The film’s attempt to address societal issues, like housing inequality and the racial justice movements of 2020, feels somewhat incomplete. These moments provide valuable context but don’t fully integrate into the larger narrative.
The scrapbook-like aesthetic mirrors the fragmented nature of memory itself, inviting viewers to engage actively with the narrative. Each piece feels like a puzzle fragment, contributing to a larger picture that comes into focus as the film unfolds. This attention to detail enhances the documentary’s emotional impact, making it feel intimate and universal.
TIME PASSAGES also addresses the emotional and logistical challenges of caregiving, particularly for loved ones with dementia. Henry captures the difficulties of the families trying to support one another during great uncertainty. The pandemic’s restrictions only magnified these struggles, creating a shared sense of helplessness that resonates deeply.
Ultimately, TIME PASSAGES is a heartfelt exploration of love, memory, and loss. Henry’s innovative storytelling and willingness to embrace vulnerability make this documentary stand out in a crowded field. It invites viewers to see their own experiences reflected in its themes. Through its raw emotions and insights, this work leaves a lasting impression, reminding us of the enduring power of memory and connection.
The film achieves a rare balance of depth and accessibility. It captures the beauty and complexity of relationships, offering a moving reminder that even in times of loss, there is the potential for understanding and healing. Henry’s tribute to Elaine is a testament to the resilience of memory and the power of storytelling, ensuring that her life and their bond will continue to inspire others.
Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.
You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Reviews.
I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.
[photo courtesy of A.O.K. PRODUCTIONS]
DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.
Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.
Average Rating