The Submarine Kid Film Review

I've got another FABULOUS film for you!!! Film lovers, you must check out this beautifully written indie movie that integrates a very real message with a twist of fantasy.  I've been hesitant to tell people what it's about, because I know when they hear the general logline they'll assume something totally different from what they'll get. I always have to tell them to trust me...it's magical.

The story, written by Finn Wittrock and Eric Bilitch, is about a Marine who returns from the Middle East, and struggles to acclimate back into "civilian" life.  Of course, you'll automatically think, okay so it's like an American Sniper--a war movie, a PTSD movie.  What you'll get is SO much more. 

Finn, who you'll also recognize from American Horror Story, Unbroken, and The Big Short, stars as our hero Spencer, opposite our mysterious enchantress Alice, played by Emilie de Ravin, who you'll know from Once Upon A Time, Lost, and Roswell.  Both give incredible performances.  I'm excited to see Finn's star continue to rise.  He's an incredible talent and this film well-captures that talent.  Perhaps I'm a bit of a snob when it comes to the theatre, but he trained in the the theatre and I believe much of his brilliance comes from that stage training.

The story is especially captivating, because it's so emotional from all sides.  It's a story about family, friendship, love, survival, struggle, and just trying to catch your breath, feel the ground beneath your feet, and making sense of chaos.  The filmmakers spoke to a number of marines to try to grasp some of the struggles some of them face when they come home. A number of these marines are even featured in the film.  Everyone's experience is different--PTSD does not have one face--so this film captures one marine's experience, taking bits from various true experiences.  It's a very topical issue, because a lot of our veterans come back and struggle, and there are organizations out there trying to help them, but there needs to be more support. 

Moreover, while this film is about a marine and his family, PTSD affects many others who are not war veterans, so there's a strong message here relaying the struggles of the person suffering from PTSD, as well as the struggles of those who are trying to understand what is going on in their loved one's head.  If you look at it like that, then many more of us can relate.  

What I love about this film is that it's a story lover's kind of film.  From the script to the screen, it's just beautiful storytelling.  Finn and Eric wrote a great story, and I look forward to more from the both of them.

You can now buy or rent the film on various digital platforms, including iTunes, Amazon, Google Play, and more.  Check your cable satellite channel for the film as well!

BIG LOVE & HUGS

Love,

​Justine