Soundtrack of the Soul

Read Time:3 Minute, 48 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Ari's Theme
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 39m
Director(s): Jeff Petry & Nathan Drillot (aka Salazar)
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 Vancouver International Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: In ARI’S THEME, the curtain rises on a story that is both moving and filled with heart, featuring the inspiring life of composer Ari Kinarthy. Against his battle with spinal muscular atrophy, Ari orchestrates a symphony of personal expression that resonates with every note. Directors Nathan Drillot and Jeff Lee Petry weave this narrative through a lens that captures the challenges and the triumphs of a life dedicated to music amidst formidable physical constraints.

The documentary introduces us to Ari's revolutionary approach to music composition from the first frame. Without the physical ability to play instruments in the traditional sense, Ari's mind becomes his instrument, crafting melodies that speak volumes of his innate musical talent and resilience. This innovative method, augmented by Soundbeam technology, allows Ari to perform and compose in a manner that evolves significantly throughout the film, painting a portrait of an artist whose passion refuses to be hindered by his physical condition.

The visual storytelling in ARI’S THEME does more than just tell a story; it invites the audience into Ari's world. With a vivid exploration of what musical composition means to the artist and the audience alike, the film beautifully articulates the inner workings of Ari’s thoughts and feelings, translating his experiences into something tangible and strikingly impactful.

The documentary's heart is the connection between Ari and his music therapist, Allan Slade. This partnership, filled with mutual respect and deep understanding, highlights the transformative power of music and human connection. The film explores how this relationship and the symbolic depiction of Ari's family members as something deeper play a crucial role in Ari’s creative process and personal growth.

The documentary’s score, an original composition by Ari himself, acts as both a narrative anchor and a focal point of the film. It encapsulates the full spectrum of Ari’s emotional landscape—from the deeply reflective to the exuberantly hopeful. Each piece is a chapter in its own right, echoing Ari's journey and aspirations through a complex arrangement of sounds and silences.

ARI’S THEME leaves some melodies unexplored, particularly the origins of Ari's musical journey. This oversight (intentional or not) makes the audience long for a deeper dive into the early echoes that shaped his musical path. Despite this, the film orchestrates a powerful narrative about the enduring human spirit and the legacy one can build through sheer creativity and determination.

As the credits roll, the audience is left with admiration for Ari's unwavering commitment to his craft and life. ARI’S THEME is more than a documentary—it’s a celebration of overcoming the odds and expressing one's true self through the universal language of music. It's a reminder that creativity can flourish under any circumstance and that the true essence of artistry comes from within.

For anyone who has faced barriers, ARI’S THEME reminds us that art transcends all boundaries. It's not just a film; it’s an experience that underscores the indelible impact of nurturing one’s passions and the beautiful legacy that can follow.

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[photo courtesy of SALAZAR, A TELUS ORIGINALS FILM]

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