Ghostlight – Film Review

Ghostlight is a contemplative drama directed by Kelly O’Sullivan and Alex Thompson from a screenplay by O’Sullivan. The film, starring Keith Kupferer, Dolly de Leon, Katherine May Kupferer, and Tara Mallen, delicately explores themes of grief, guilt, and the healing power of art through the lives of a family shattered by tragedy.

The story centers on Dan Mueller (Keith Kupferer), a construction worker struggling with the aftermath of his son Brian’s suicide. Dan’s life is a chaotic whirlpool of stress, intensified by the disciplinary issues of his teenage daughter Daisy (Katherine May Kupferer) and a wrongful death lawsuit against Christine Hawthorne, Brian’s ex-girlfriend. The weight of his grief and guilt is palpable, coloring every aspect of his interactions and decisions. Kupferer’s portrayal of Dan is nuanced and deeply human, capturing the raw, often unspoken pain of a grieving father.

Dan’s life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Rita (Dolly de Leon), an actor at a community theater. Rita invites Dan to read for the role of Lord Capulet in their upcoming production of Romeo and Juliet, a decision that sets off a transformative journey for him. De Leon’s Rita is a captivating presence, bringing warmth and a touch of eccentricity to the narrative. Her interactions with Dan are some of the film’s most compelling moments, showcasing a unique chemistry that drives much of the emotional arc.

Daisy, a former actor herself, becomes a crucial part of Dan’s journey. Initially reluctant, she is drawn back into the world of theater, finding a semblance of connection and purpose. Katherine May Kupferer delivers a standout performance as Daisy, balancing teenage angst with a profound sense of loss. Her evolving relationship with her father is a central thread, providing some of the film’s most poignant and heart-wrenching scenes.

The subplot involving Dan’s wife, Sharon (Tara Mallen), adds another layer of complexity. Sharon’s own way of coping with their son’s death – trying to build a garden over the site of Brian’s suicide – contrasts sharply with Dan’s approach, creating tension and conflict within the family. Mallen’s portrayal of Sharon is compelling, capturing the desperation and helplessness of a mother trying to hold her family together while dealing with her own grief.

One of the film’s strengths lies in its portrayal of the healing power of art. The theater becomes a sanctuary for Dan, a place where he can confront his pain and find a form of catharsis. The scenes of Dan rehearsing and performing in *Romeo and Juliet* are beautifully crafted, intertwining the narrative of the play with Dan’s personal journey. The parallels between the tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet and Dan’s own story of loss and forgiveness add depth and resonance to the film.

However, Ghostlight is not without its flaws. The pacing can be uneven at times, with certain subplots feeling underdeveloped. The wrongful death lawsuit, a significant source of tension, is somewhat sidelined, leaving the resolution feeling abrupt and lacking in impact. Additionally, while the performances are generally strong, there are moments where the dialogue feels stilted and overly theatrical, detracting from the film’s naturalistic tone.

The film’s visual style is understated yet effective, with a muted color palette that reflects the somber mood. The use of lighting and shadows is particularly noteworthy, enhancing the themes of loss and redemption. The theater scenes are a visual highlight, capturing the magic and intensity of live performance.

The supporting cast, including Hana Dworkin, Tommy Rivera-Vega, Alma Washington, H.B. Ward, Dexter Zollicoffer, Deanna Dunagan, and Francis Guinan, provide solid performances, adding texture and depth to the world of the community theater. Each character brings their own quirks and stories, contributing to the film’s rich tapestry.

One of the film’s most powerful elements is its exploration of the different ways people cope with grief. Dan’s journey is a testament to the fact that healing is not a linear process. It is messy, unpredictable, and deeply personal. The film does not offer easy answers or neat resolutions, but it does provide a sense of hope and the possibility of reconciliation.

Ghostlight is a film that resonates on an emotional level, thanks in large part to its strong performances and thoughtful storytelling. Keith Kupferer anchors the film with a performance that is both raw and tender, while Dolly de Leon and Katherine May Kupferer provide excellent support. The film’s exploration of grief, guilt, and the redemptive power of art is handled with sensitivity and insight.

Ghostlight is a poignant and thought-provoking drama that offers a compelling look at a family’s struggle with loss and their journey towards healing. While it has its flaws, the film’s emotional depth and strong performances make it a worthwhile watch. It is a reminder of the power of storytelling, both on and off the stage, to heal, connect, and transform.