MOVIE REVIEW
Belief
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Genre: Drama, Short
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 14m
Director(s): Christian Loubek
Writer(s): Christian Loubek
Cast: Erika Hamilton, Baer Hamilton Loubek, Blake McLennan, Mykee Selkin, Tia Robinson, Charley Harper Loubek, Joy Ganes, Jolieba Blount, Viergela Horwitz, Shelmarri Saldivar, Charles ‘CJ’ Jones, Steve Irwin
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 LA Shorts International Film Festival and Martha's Vineyard African American Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: In Christian Loubek’s study on compassion and empathy, we follow the contemplative journey of Lennox Malcolm Lewis, portrayed by Mykee Selkin (and Baer Hamilton Loubek and Blake McLennan), whose life unravels through a series of poignant flashbacks initiated by a childhood letter he discovers amidst moving boxes. This narrative, intended to bridge past and present, challenges the traditional formatting of a film, which might leave some viewers longing for clearer signposts along the timeline. As the story unfolds, it dives deep into Lennox’s upbringing by his mother (Erika Hamilton,) exploring the demanding balance she maintains between nurturing her son’s life through homeschooling and managing her career.

The film shines when it captures the unremarkable yet significant challenges that shape the day-to-day existence of its characters, avoiding any drift into melodrama. Loubek’s commitment to a minimalist storytelling approach strips the narrative down to its core, where the power of raw, authentic dialogue and intimate actor interactions take center stage. By casting his family members, Loubek not only heightens the authenticity of the emotional exchanges but also ensures that each beat of the film resonates with genuine feelings.

In addition to its narrative strengths, the film's use of setting and cinematography significantly contributes to the overall storytelling. Loubek effectively utilizes the physical environment to reflect Lennox's internal conflicts and growth. The interplay of light and shadow in various settings subtly underscores Lennox’s emotional states. Bright, airy scenes coincide with moments of clarity and hope, while darker, more confined spaces often frame periods of doubt and reflection. This careful manipulation of visual elements deepens the viewer's engagement with the characters' journeys and enhances the film’s thematic resonance without relying heavily on dialogue.

Lennox’s past and present transitions are done so that it will challenge some audience members, and I don’t think that’s a bad thing; along with the film’s deliberate pacing, the film doesn’t give the viewer a clean-cut experience in a 14-minute package. The film's climax conveys the enduring strength of parental love and sacrifice, making a lasting emotional impact.

The portrayal of maternal love stands out as the film’s core. It is not through overt dramatic actions but through subtle, everyday sacrifices that often go unnoticed. Loubek’s direction avoids the standard sentimental pitfalls, presenting these themes with sincerity and depth. The chemistry between some cast members, bolstered by some of their real-life family ties, enriches their performances and profoundly impacts the emotional moments.

Ultimately, the film delivers an intimate look at what it means to be family, love unconditionally, and the profound influence of a mother’s love. It reminds us of mothers' often unseen but deeply felt impact on shaping our lives, showcased through a lens that blends genuine emotional resonance with restrained cinematic craftsmanship.

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[photo courtesy of SELEKT FILM]

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