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Ad Astra

This science fiction drama produced and starred in by Brad Pitt; is an introspective, understated and boldly beautiful film. It shows the very lengths we go to in order to find and rediscover ourselves- in Brad Pitt character’s case, all the way to Neptune.
He travels all the way to this planet with the goal of finding his estranged father, and ends the journey, with a renewed sense of life, connection and self-understanding. The film is subtle and at its core; internally focused, as it features the detached relationship between father and son, yet the intimacy longed for by the protagonist. He is essentially a reclusive loner and initially does not want to rely on anyone else but himself. He also suppresses his emotions and is seen as an unbelievably calm person, lacking in emotional openness, which also makes him distant and detached from his wife, who he later reconciles with (sorry, spoiler!)
The transformation that occurs within the protagonist makes him more radically honest, embark on a journey of intensive inner work, release control and extreme mastery of himself, and allows him to take internally courageous risks by showing his vulnerability. He lets go, and embraces the struggle and crisis he experiences throughout this film’s course.
His pain mainly comes from the early abandonment of his father, perfectly played by Tommy Lee Jones. Brad Pitt said in one press interview, that he and James Gray, the film’s director, wanted to express notions of masculinity, and that a more dynamic, changed definition of it can exist, so that men can have better relationships with themselves and with their loved ones.

His character increases in self-awareness and recognises his deepest pains.
The standout scenes for me were:

  • The psychological evaluation done on his way to Mars where he says vulnerably and authentically, ‘’All I see is hurt…I don’t know how to get past this…I don’t want to be my Dad.’’
  • Meeting his father and facing the hurt that has caused him this sense of loneliness
  • Letting go of his father (physically and emotionally)
  • The final scene, where his last psych evaluation monologue is radically different to the ones prior. It shows how outer space paved a way for him entering his own internal space, and becoming the man he was truly capable of becoming.

 
This film reminds us of our very need for each other and humanity. That we all, deep down, seek genuine connection. All of this is set against the backdrop of a stunning space-realism and spectacular cinematography which is intriguing, nuanced and gorgeous.
As Brad Pitt himself said about the movie, it is ‘’a journey of the soul, of the self.’’
 
I give this one 3 out of 5 stars (‘’to the stars!’- meaning of Ad Astra)

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Harry Potter (Films 1-8)

If there is a renowned film series that is inclusive of the main life themes/skills I focus on in my work, Harry Potter is one which stands out. As with many people I know, this series (books and movies) have been an essential and nostalgic part of our childhoods and adolescence. For one of the most successful film franchises ever, and running from 2001 to 2011 (not including the Fantastic Beasts prequel franchise), I believe that it deserves all recognition as a pioneering, inventive and imaginatively ground-breaking piece of art.

I recall watching the Sydney Symphony Orchestra playing one of the films in the Sydney Opera House with my best friend, and we were truly overwhelmed and joyous, experiencing the music live alongside the true magic of the film. I am highlighting this point, as even just the music itself is recognisable worldwide, and captures viewers from all walks of life.

If there is anything the Philosopher’s Stone, Chamber of Secrets, Prisoner of Azkaban, Goblet of Fire, Order of the Phoenix, Half-Blood Prince, and Deathly Hallows do VERY well, it is taking audiences on an epic journey; not just without, but within. Harry’s character development alone is memorable, and being the principal character, makes his path immersive, relatable and vital. I consistently felt like I grew up with the characters of the Wizarding world, as JK Rowling and the film’s screenwriters truly evoked the deep spectrum of human emotions, means for catharsis, and a reflection on the human condition (Muggle or not). What is extraordinary about this series is how we become so connected to the story; and so much so, that I don’t know of anyone who has seen the series only once in their lives (I for one have seen each film possibly more than 5 times).

Even if I were to simply name characters and their alignment with each of the life skills I work on with my clients, it would simply (but not only) be:

  • Taking Courageous Risks- Harry, Ron & Hermione
  • Intensive Inner Work- Harry
  • Releasing Control of All Kinds- Dumbledore
  • Radical Honesty- Sirius Black and the Weasleys
  • Living Authentically- Hagrid

Voldemort aka. He Who Must Not Be Named, the Death Eaters and Dementors seem to signify the shadow sides of humanity (literally called ‘Dark Forces’). Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry and the Ministry of Magic symbolise human systems and bureaucracies that exist and which we all know far too well.

I will never forget Dumbledore’s words to Harry, ‘’It’s our choices Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.’’ Every film presents essential choices that need to be made, as well as Harry finding the courage and integrity within himself; with the support of those close to him, to make these choices.

While it is the least box-office grossing film of them all, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is actually my favourite film (followed by Goblet of Fire), as I find that from this particular film, darkness begins to imbue Harry and his friends’ paths, which creates intrigue, empathy and even anger/despair at certain systems, injustices and events during the film’s course.

I found that each director had their own unique visions for the films, which still flow understandably and cohesively into the next. Pretty much all of the films are critically acclaimed and I believe, rightfully so. All are complex and clever ‘meditations’ on family, friendship, love, trauma, having a higher purpose, and belonging.

Without going into too much of filmic language, all components of the film’s production, including the cinematography, art direction, costume design, score and visual effects are noteworthy and immensely rewatchable.
As JK Rowling posted once on Twitter, ‘’All these people saying they never got their Hogwarts letter, you got the letter. You went to Hogwarts. We were all there together.’’
 
4.75 stars to Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff & Slytherin! 😉

The Deep End of the Ocean

Here’s to another review of a film based on a novel (with possible spoilers).
The movie from 1999, The Deep End of the Ocean – is an undeniably moving character study of family ties.
It delves into all types of family relationships, especially marriages, siblings and parent’s relationships with their children. As an only daughter of a single mother, this film truly touched me, as it demonstrated the issues of neglect, emotional abandonment, nervous breakdown, guilt, reconciliation, marriage issues, suicide, trust, and sibling love. It showcases the raw complexities, frustrations, resentments and disappointments that individuals experience within their families, but packaged in a truly extraordinary situation.

As the trailer said, ‘’the struggles that make us stronger’’, and I will always remember the unforgettable line in the film (as they show radical honesty), ‘’I need you to love me’’, and the profound apologies given to certain family members and other characters in the film.


As usual, Michelle Pfeiffer is outstanding as the lead, with Treat Williams’ portrayal of the devastated and protective father; also, believable and heart-wrenching. The boys who play both brothers when they are older, are so remarkably authentic in their angst, uncertainties and aching fears. Whoopi Goldberg’s cop character is a deeply human, compassionate, understanding, and frank one, which adds even further to the open conversations, and necessitated empathetic approach to such a life crisis and circumstance for unparalleled grief, despair and a sense of helplessness.


All unfolding events lead and transpire into the understandable familial tensions and major conflicts throughout the film, which also create a gateway for healing, inner growth, and the inevitably beautiful transformation of minds, opinions, hearts and personal perspectives.


I’m not yet a parent but this film will stick in my mind, as a memorable and worthy depiction of the real worries and concerns of raising a family, and of sustaining a unified marriage.

After watching ‘The Deep End of the Ocean’, I thought to myself (and perhaps you can ask yourself similar questions):

  • How did this make me feel about my own relationships and interactions with my family?
  • Which character/s did I resonate most with and why?
  • What were my thoughts around how each of the characters coped with their traumatic experiences as individuals, and within the context of family?
  • What’s my opinion/perception of how Michelle Pfeiffer’s character as a forlorn mother evolved through the course of the film’s denouement, as a more empowered woman with clarity and increased compassion? 

I give this poignant film 4/5 stars.

WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING

This is a movie I watched twice prior to reading the book. It was a deliberate choice I made as I wanted to experience this unique adaption on the big screen for myself. For such a controversial film story which numerous critics did not enjoy, I found it to be an immersive and moving tale; one that I was glad Reese Witherspoon decided to produce.What I liked about the film is that it spans across multiple genres: legal drama, thriller, romance, and a coming-of-age mystery. And it does so in an arguably profound way. For a lover of all things profound, I appreciated the ways the story was told in all the ways it could, as a movie, and with the admitted limitations of a movie.

Daisy Edgar Jones who played Kya, the derided ‘’Marsh girl’’, was engrossing as the reclusive loner, with her purity, burgeoning sensuality, and the seeming strength of conviction in her questionable innocence.I believe the reason I was so drawn to a second viewing is the resemblance of inner child wounding that Kya experiences, with parents who both abandon her in different ways. In the context of counselling and therapy; Kya’s isolation and the absence of her family, also made her extremely self-reliant, and in tune with nature; as her life experiences forced her to be dependent on the provision of nature and being in sync with its elements. As well as this, the underlying tension and the atmosphere is in itself ‘dense;’ oscillating between a gentle, tender story of a delicate girl who transforms into a fiercely intelligent, sensitive, and persevering woman; plus, the harshness of the land and the people she resides with. Those who desperately misunderstand and underestimate her humanity.

Taylor Swift’s deftly written song specific for this film, ‘Carolina’ features the telling lyrics, ‘’Lost I was born, lonesome I came…’’ which describe the tone of the film, in which there is a great sense of loneliness throughout the entire (just over) 2 hours. Even the film’s voiceover is an effective device which adds to the solitude in which Kya lives. It is Kya’s indomitable spirit that is her strength.

Kya is irrevocably attracted to both male characters in the film/book, Tate and Chase, who pave the way for Kya’s growth and evolution as a human being; one in a positive, nurturing way, and the other, in the way that destructive ex-lovers maim us, yet teach us self-love and acceptance.

All in all, this is a deeply personal film story to me, which again demonstrates the undeniable power of filmmaking, and the relatability of specific human experiences to each of us as individuals on our own life journeys, and feeling our own pains and struggles. The resilience and resourcefulness of Kya’s character may evoke memories of our own crises and the ingenuity of our overcoming, truth-seeking, and defiance from external support, even when offered genuinely. As an ardent lover of nature, I also adore the cinematography of the marshlands she relies on, and her impenetrable relationship with It.

Personally, I didn’t enjoy the book much (a very individual experience and process) and actually preferred the film more (though of course it had its flaws, but when is anything of true perfection?) I wouldn’t call either a ‘masterpiece’, yet the story is understandably a bestseller and popular amongst audiences worldwide. The filmic characters are overall- intriguing, well cast (it has been said in several film critic reviews that Kya’s specific look in the film is not believable or sincere, and I agree to some extent, however Daisy’s acting is real and convincing enough). Her purity and intimacy remain childlike almost like the marshlands; untouched and open-hearted, even after her suffering.

As Kya says, ‘’Life persists.’’ And so does the authentic self, along with devoted, true love.
Despite ongoing pain, inevitable human hurt and even the trauma of abandonment; forgiveness can exist for those we love who wound us, and a radical compassion given to ourselves amidst the agony and chaos of living.

I give this film 4.5/5 stars. 😊

IF YOU WATCH THE FILM, CONSIDER THESE QUESTIONS (ones which I also asked myself):

  • Which character in the film did you most identify with and why?
  • Is there a particular element of the movie that you felt really drawn to and why did you think this was the case?
  • What scene or scenes did you find most impactful and resonant for you in your own life?


Get To Know Kathryn

Information will be updated, including monthly film reviews in relation to therapy.
​I am open to diverse types of films in our work together. Horror is actually my favourite movie genre 🙂 But perhaps we can stay away from gory horrors generally and psychological thrillers/violent action, if they disturb you. There are numerous film genres we can choose from. For example:

  • Drama
  • Comedy
  • Action/Adventure
  • Science Fiction
  • Romance
  • Animation
  • Indie
  • Documentary
  • International/Foreign
  • Musical
  • Fantasy
  • War
  • Epic/Creature Feature/Disaster
  • Indie/Experimental
  • Biographical
  • Silent
Some of my favourite female characters who I find to be empowering and motivating:

  • Mulan
  • Matilda
  • Hermione Granger
  • Ellen Ripley
  • Katniss Everdeen

 
Some of my favourite actors/actresses:

  • Toni Colette
  • Sandra Bullock
  • Cate Blanchett
  • Charlize Theron
  • Natalie Portman
  • Amy Adams
  • Joaquin Phoenix
  • Denzel Washington
  • Christian Bale
  • Matt Damon
  • Leonardo DiCaprio
  • James McAvoy
  • Jack Nicholson

Contact us for your counselling needs and film therapy sessions. ​
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