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Broken Heirlooms Lead to Unforeseen Journeys

TV PILOT REVIEW
Restorage

     

Genre: Drama, Comedy, Sci-Fi
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 29m
Director(s): E'an Verdugo
Writer(s): Caleb Davis, E'an Verdugo
Cast: Connor Boyd, Olivia Clari Nice, Jacob Daniels, Joan Deschamps, Stephen Miller, Francis Juarez
Where To Watch: premiering at the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival, www.slamdance.com


RAVING REVIEW: Unlock the possibilities in RESTORAGE, and you’ll quickly see you're not just watching a show but embarking on a journey peppered with the raw complexities of family life. It's a tale that somehow throws in a sci-fi twist into a family drama, and it just works, setting the stage for a narrative rich with emotions and plenty of lighthearted moments. From the opening scene, RESTORAGE grabs your attention with its blend of humor, drama, and an intriguing premise that promises an engaging ride.


At the heart of this (hopefully soon-to-be) series lies a story that juggles a sci-fi element with the intricate tale of family dynamics. We're introduced to three siblings, each navigating their unique paths. The eldest, Robert, assumes control of the family business, burdened by responsibility. Lisa is the family's emotional anchor, inheriting more than just property - she's handed down a legacy. And then there's Chase, the wildcard of the family, who finds himself with an almost empty storage unit - a seemingly insignificant inheritance that holds secrets within its walls.

RESTORAGE takes a dramatic turn when an altercation between Chase and Robert leads to the accidental destruction of a family heirloom, exacerbating the fragile family ties. Along this episode's journey, the story takes us to the storage unit, symbolizing the potential for hope and reconciliation.

Directing this captivating narrative is indie filmmaker E'an Verdugo, whose passion for dramedy infuses each scene with authenticity and creativity. His collaboration with co-writer Caleb Davis makes a story as heartfelt as imaginative. Their partnership elevates the potential here, blending humor and drama in a refreshing and relatable manner.

The casting of RESTORAGE is fantastic, as Connor Boyd embodies the role of Chase with a perfect mix of whimsy and vulnerability. Olivia Clare-Nice, as Lisa, brings a sense of stability and rationality to the family dynamic. Jacob Daniels' portrayal of Robert adds an air of ambition and pragmatism, rounding out the trio of siblings and creating a tension that makes it feel like they’re actual siblings (dysfunctional, but still.)

RESTORAGE holds all the potential and more; I hope it gets picked up as a series! It’s a testament to the possibility of what a passion project and crafting a multifaceted, compelling narrative can create. This series fuses science fiction and family drama with a proper dose of humor, creating an engaging and thought-provoking viewing experience. Verdugo and Davis have succeeded in creating something that entertains and invites viewers to ponder the complexities of familial relationships. RESTORAGE is a shining example of an independent production's ability to create engaging stories that resonate with audiences.

P.S. I need to know what happens next, so please make this series happen!

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[photo courtesy of BONUS FEATURES, MAGIC PRODUCTIONS GROUP]

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Chris Jones
Entertainment Editor

Chris Jones is the Mail Entertainment Editor covering Movies and Television topics. He is from Washington, Illinois, and is the owner, writer, and editor of Overly Honest Reviews.