When Loss Takes Flight, Healing Begins

Read Time:3 Minute, 49 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Secret Art of Human Flight
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Genre: Comedy, Drama, Sci-Fi Fantasy
Year Released: 2023, 2024
Runtime: 1h 47m
Director(s): H.P. Mendoza
Writer(s): Jesse Orenshein
Cast: Grant Rosenmeyer, Paul Raci, Lucy DeVito, Nican Robinson, Rosa Arredondo, Reina Hardesty, Maggie Grace, Sendhil Ramamurthy
Where To Watch: available On Demand August 23, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: In H.P. Mendoza's film, we are drawn into a world where grief and fantasy intertwine, presenting a narrative that captivates and consoles. The film introduces us to Ben Grady, portrayed by Grant Rosenmeyer, whose life is upended by the loss of his wife, Sarah (Reina Hardesty.) From a life bursting with creative energy and love, Ben finds himself in a labyrinth of sorrow, searching for a way out. His unusual path to solace? Learning to fly—not just in his dreams but potentially in reality. As Ben delves into this unexpected journey, guided by the eccentric Mealworm (a standout performance by Paul Raci), the film crafts a poignant exploration of grief that challenges the boundaries of reality and the healing process.

Ben's transformation from a man engulfed by despair to one who dares to embrace the improbable is a journey you won’t soon forget. Heavy with his loss, the initial scenes gradually give way to sequences filled with whimsy and wonder as Ben pursues the art of human flight. This shift is punctuated by his encounters with Mealworm, whose unconventional methods and philosophical insights propel Ben toward a confrontation with his deepest emotions. The screenplay, by Jesse Orenshein, weaves these elements seamlessly, incorporating flashbacks of Ben and Sarah’s happier times, which serve as poignant reminders of what Ben has lost—and what he must recover.

While the main plot captivates, a subplot involving Detective Reyes, portrayed by Rosa Arredondo, introduces a layer of unexpected suspense. She suspects foul play in Sarah's death, adding a dimension of intrigue. However, this storyline sometimes feels disconnected from the film’s emotional core, occasionally pulling focus from Ben's transformative journey.

Cinematographer Markus Mentzer employs a fascinating blend of conventional and surreal techniques to mirror Ben's internal turmoil and fantastical endeavors. The 4:3 aspect ratio and ethereal visual effects enrich the narrative's dream-like quality, though some may find these techniques a little jarring if they are not expecting them.

Supporting characters like Wendy, played by Maggie Grace, contribute to the narrative’s exploration. Her role as a kindred spirit in grief gives Ben a mirror, reflecting his struggles and strides toward healing. Her simple yet profound advice to Ben to find a purpose and see it through resonates as a central theme of the film, emphasizing action as a pathway out of despair.

Despite its occasional narrative missteps, THE SECRET ART OF HUMAN FLIGHT is an ambitious film that successfully marries drama and fantasy elements to delve into the complexities of loss. It invites viewers to consider how embracing unconventional paths can facilitate healing. The film concludes on a predictable and satisfying note, affirming that personal evolution often requires bold leaps into the unknown.

For those who have walked through the shadowy valleys of grief, this film offers a reminder that resurgence is possible, and sometimes the most incredible journeys are the most enriching. With its heartfelt performances and imaginative storytelling, the film stands out as a beacon of hope and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

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[photo courtesy of LEVEL 33 ENTERTAINMENT]

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