Watch The Understanding

The Understanding is a heartwarming and thought-provoking drama film that premiered in 2019, directed by Kevin Ribak and produced by Ribak's own production company, Petrichor Productions. The film stars Joshua Copeland as Lucas, Kieran Donnelly as his best friend Jake, and Hannah Heaton as Emily, a girl who comes into Lucas's life following the death of his father.

Lucas is a withdrawn teenager who has recently lost his father. He struggles with understanding why his father had to die and why the world is so cruel. In his grief, he pushes away his mother and best friend Jake. Emily, a transfer student to Lucas's school, begins to reach out to him, and a tentative connection slowly forms between them. Emily's mother is a hospice nurse, and this experience has given her a unique perspective on loss and grief. Her compassionate nature helps Lucas to begin to heal from his loss and connect with the world again.

As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that each character is struggling with their own issues. Jake is dealing with his parents' divorce and the stress of being a caregiver for his younger brother. Emily is coming to terms with the terminal illness of her mother and worrying about how she will manage on her own once her mother has passed. Even Lucas's mother has her own demons to face, dealing with the aftermath of her husband's death and the tension in her relationship with her son.

The Understanding is a poignant portrayal of grief, loss, and the human condition. It explores the idea that everyone we meet is fighting a battle that we know nothing about, and that we should all strive to be kinder and more understanding toward one another. The film delivers a powerful message about the importance of connection, empathy, and forgiveness.

The direction and cinematography in The Understanding are masterful, with an emphasis on the beauty of the natural world contrasted with the characters' struggles. The score is understated but impactful, adding to the emotional weight of every scene. The performances by Copeland, Donnelly, and Heaton are exceptional, with each actor bringing authenticity and depth to their roles. The chemistry between Copeland and Heaton is particularly noteworthy, with their gradual connection feeling natural and unforced.

The Understanding is a film that will leave its viewers contemplating their own lives and the struggles they face. It encourages audience members to reflect on the power of empathy and the value of connection in a world so often full of pain and turmoil. The film is a testament to the power of storytelling and the significance of art in helping us make sense of the complex world around us.

Overall, The Understanding is a must-see film for anyone who has experienced loss or is seeking to understand the complexities of the human experience. Its message is one of hope and connection, and it is a stirring example of the power of film to touch our hearts and open our minds.