Watch Rumination

Rumination is a gripping drama film from 2017 that takes viewers on an emotional journey through grief, loss, and mental illness. It features an exceptional cast that includes Joey Casasanto, Aaron Christensen, and Kayla Newman, who give incredibly nuanced performances that are both powerful and raw. The movie centers around the character of Brandon Walker, played by Casasanto, a young man struggling to cope with the death of his mother. Brandon is living alone in their family home, where he is haunted by memories of his mother and struggling to find meaning in his life. He spends his days working a dead-end job as a bartender and his nights getting drunk and trying to numb his pain.

As the film progresses, we see Brandon's mental state slowly deteriorate. He begins to have panic attacks and vivid hallucinations, which have him questioning his own sanity. His only solace is his therapist, Dr. Brady, played excellently by Aaron Christensen. Dr. Brady works tirelessly to help Brandon navigate through his grief and manage his mental health, but as Brandon's condition becomes worse, their relationship becomes more complex.

The film also explores the relationships Brandon has with his friends and acquaintances, particularly with a woman named Natalie (Kayla Newman), who he meets at a party. Brandon's immediate attraction to Natalie is complicated by his own insecurities and his fear of being vulnerable. Nonetheless, their relationship grows throughout the film, and Natalie comes to represent a glimpse of hope and happiness in Brandon's otherwise dark and lonely world.

One of the most remarkable things about Rumination is how it portrays mental illness. The film is never gratuitous or sensational. Instead, it offers an honest portrayal of the complexities of living with a mental illness. The filmmakers do an impressive job of showcasing the day-to-day challenges of depression and anxiety, including the challenges of seeking help in a society that often stigmatizes those with mental illness.

The film also tackles the nuances of grief, highlighting the profound emotional weight it can carry. There are no quick fixes or closure, but instead, the film showcases how grief is a messy and ongoing process that takes time and effort to navigate.

The direction of the film is thoughtful and striking. Director Russell Emanuel, with his talented cinematographer Lucas Pitassi, creates stunning visuals that enhance the emotional weight of the story. The movie features an array of breathtaking shots that underscore the beauty of the world around Brandon, even as he struggles to see it.

The score by composer Timothy Andrew Edwards perfectly complements the film's moods, creating a soundscape that is both ominous and melancholy. The music helps to build tension and enhances the film's emotional intensity, but it is never intrusive, working only to support the story, rather than distract from it.

Overall, Rumination is an impressive and emotive drama, brought to life by a talented cast and crew. The film delivers a poignant portrayal of mental illness, grief, and loss, exploring some of the most difficult themes in a way that is touching, authentic, and thoroughly human. It is a film that will resonate with anyone who has experienced pain or loss and provides a powerful message of hope for those struggling with their own mental health.

Rumination is a 2017 drama with a runtime of 12 hours.