Light from Light

Under Paul Harrill's direction, Light from Light exemplifies the idea that less is more. The beauty of this film is based in its simplicity. The silent spaces carved out within the movie speak volumes. With its scenic shots and delicate light, the cinematography is a great complement to the story, and it definitely adds to the idea of embracing life's simple, small, still moments while you can. There's a deliberate mundaneness here that accentuates the miracle of being present. That very stillness encourages viewers to prepare to embrace what the eyes may not be able to see. The way that the characters' day-to-day lives is depicted immediately makes their perspectives and experiences relatable. The universal themes of loss, death, loneliness, needing to be heard, needing to connect, and those first beautiful moments when you realize that you may be falling in love are all simply laid out, and it just works. The sweet affection between Owen and Lucy provides the perfect balance to the melancholy, introspective natures of Richard and Sheila. The way that Gaffigan inhabits the role of Richard is very interesting, immediately creating feelings of empathy. And though she's very subtle in her delivery, Ireland shows great emotional range as Sheila. Wiggins' Owen is believable and likable, and Frizzell exudes a soft, natural charm on screen.

Light from Light is likely to touch many audiences, given the way that it diplomatically depicts life and the kind of circumstances that are often out of our control while also asking questions about the nature of life and death, the idea of life after death, and science's ability to explain the supernatural. Harrill does a thorough job of taking fear and spookiness out the narrative while drawing attention to the human spirit, matters of the heart, and even a reverence for the story's paranormal and supernatural aspects. Father Martin (David Cale) makes a very poignant observation when Sheila asks him about ghosts and he replies, "Some would describe Christ when He was resurrected as a ghost." Like the priest's character, the script lends itself toward considering others' perspective without judging them -- and at seeing a life or a circumstance from a different point of view. Light from Light proves that it doesn't take much to tell a beautiful, touching story. If you aren't careful when watching this film, you may mistake its stillness for a boring storyline. But on the contrary, the silence, the stillness, and the magnification of simple daily activities is an invitation to actually be still -- so that you can catch a glimpse of what the eyes usually can't see.