Watch Lola's Last Letter

Lola's Last Letter is a 2016 independent drama film directed by Valerie Brandy, who also stars in the lead role. The movie is about a woman named Lola who has been diagnosed with a terminal illness and is struggling to come to terms with her impending death. The film explores her relationships with her family and friends and delves into the emotions she experiences during her final days.

The storyline revolves around Lola, a 30-something-year-old who is excited about starting a new chapter in her life. However, her enthusiasm takes a turn when she receives the news that she has cancer and the prognosis is not good. Lola is devastated by the diagnosis and is unsure how to deal with the reality of dying. She decides to write letters to the most important people in her life, expressing how much she loves them and thanking them for the role they played in her life.

Lola's Last Letter focuses on the aftermath of Lola's diagnosis and how it affects her physical and emotional well-being. The film portrays her battling depression, anger, and denial as she works through her illness. Through her letters, Lola confronts her past regrets and tries to make peace with the things she cannot change. She also reaches out to her estranged mother, whom she hasn’t seen in years, and tries to establish a connection with her.

The movie also explores the relationship Lola shares with her ex-partner, Alex, played by Travis Quentin Young. Alex, who has moved on with his life, is nevertheless there for her in her time of need. The two struggle to reconcile their past while dealing with the grim reality of Lola's condition. The film portrays their relationship with sensitivity, highlighting their mixed emotions towards one another.

Annamarie Kenoyer plays Lola's best friend, Julie. Julie is a loving and supportive friend who is always there for Lola throughout her ordeal. She helps Lola find a sense of meaning in her life and encourages her to make the most of the time she has left.

What makes this film unique is the fact that it delves into the experience of dying from the perspective of the dying person. It tackles the taboo subject of death with sensitivity and honesty, providing insight into the emotions and challenges faced by someone in that position. The film is character-driven and puts the focus on the human experience rather than the plot.

The cinematography reflects the sombre subject matter, with muted colors and slow-paced shots, reflecting the mood of the characters. The music also provides a poignant backdrop to the visual aspects of the film, contributing to the overall emotional intensity of the story. The film is well-paced, allowing the viewer to connect with Lola and her situation on an emotional level.

Valerie Brandy, who both directed and starred in Lola's Last Letter, delivers an outstanding performance. Her portrayal of Lola is authentic and moving, capturing the grief, fear, and hopelessness that comes with the diagnosis. The rest of the cast also delivers commendable performances, portraying their characters’ emotions with genuineness and sensitivity.

In summary, Lola's Last Letter is a heart-wrenching film that explores the human experience of dying. It is a deeply moving portrayal of how someone in Lola's position would navigate through their physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges. The movie is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and how we must cherish the moments we have with our loved ones.

Lola's Last Letter is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.