Watch Elijah's Ashes

Elijah's Ashes is a captivating drama film set in the backdrop of San Francisco, California. The independent film, which was released in 2017, highlights the theme of familial love and the importance of coming together in times of crisis. The movie follows the story of two brothers, Lawrence and Will (played by Ari Schneider and Ryan Barton-Grimley, respectively) who are forced to reunite and confront their past when their father Elijah (portrayed by Toni Charline) passes away.

The film begins with the introduction of Elijah, a former musician, and his two sons. Elijah, who was an absent father, returns to his home in San Francisco after learning that he has contracted the fatal disease mesothelioma. As Elijah's condition worsens, Lawrence and Will are forced to put their differences aside and come to terms with their father's impending death. However, this is easier said than done for the two estranged brothers.

Lawrence, the elder of the two, is a successful businessman and married with children. On the other hand, Will is a struggling musician who has been battling addiction and is estranged from his family. Throughout the film, the audience gets to see the interaction between Lawrence and Will as they try to navigate their relationship while dealing with their father's illness. The film's narrative is powerful, moving the audience through various emotions and reveals several twists and turns as the two characters revisit their past.

One of the notable aspects of the film is the strong performances by the main actors. Schneider and Barton-Grimley deliver authentic and emotive portrayals of their respective roles. The chemistry between the two actors feels genuine, and their on-screen performances are convincing enough to make the audience believe in their tumultuous relationship.

Despite its subject matter, Elijah's Ashes is not entirely a downer. The movie's cinematography is beautiful, and the San Francisco setting provides a beautiful and serene backdrop for the drama. The film uses sepia filters and vintage footage to provide a nostalgic and romantic charm. This is further emphasized by the musical score throughout the film which adds another layer of emotionality to the whole story.

Director Ryan Barton-Grimley does an excellent job of portraying the complexities of family dynamics, especially when dealing with an absent or problematic parent. The film delves into the challenges of reconciliation and shows that even amidst the disappointments, betrayals, and heartaches, there is still a chance for forgiveness and redemption among loved ones.

Overall, Elijah's Ashes is a touching and emotionally powerful drama that explores the complex nature of family relationships. The story is relatable to anyone who has dealt with the loss of a loved one, and the movie is a testament to the power of familial love, forgiveness, and second chances. The film's pace is measured, and while it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate quality independent cinema will find Elijah's Ashes to be a well-made and touching piece of filmmaking.

Elijah's Ashes is a 2017 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.3.