Till Human Voices Wake Us (2015)

Till Human Voices Wake Us Poster

Inspired by the Celtic myths of the Selkies - seals in water and enchanting maidens on land - who storm Manhattan when one of their kind falls for a man drowning under the Brooklyn Bridge.

Overview
"Till Human Voices Wake Us" is a 2015 movie directed and written by Rebecca Fons and Jack C. Newell. This independent short drama focuses on love, loss, and memory. The movie's title is a line borrowed from a T.S. Eliot poem, "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock", and fittingly so, the movie magnificently weaves feeling and memories similar to a poignant poem itself.

Plot Synopsis
The film follows the story of Samuel, a psychology professor who returns to his home town for his daddy's funeral service. Full of sentimental recall, Samuel walks the town bringing back memories of his youth love, Silvy. Their innocent and pure bond stays engraved in his mind, overshadowing the reality of his quelched feelings.

He remembers their adventures and shared dreams, which contrast greatly with Silvy's tragic yet mystical fate. Samuel has a hard time to reconcile with his past, puzzled and interested by Silvy's disappearance after a twisted mishap, leading him into a spiraling journey of his past and present.

Characters
The protagonist, Samuel, is played by Guy Pearce. He illustrates a male lost in the labyrinth of his past and brilliantly represents the battle of coming to terms with reduced emotions. Helena Bonham Carter plays the adult Silvy, embodying the haunting echoes of Samuel's past. Her heavenly and engaging efficiency boosts the surreal sensation of the movie and elevates the psychological turmoil of the lead character.

Structure and Style
The narrative structure alternates between Samuel's previous and present, producing a labyrinthine timeline that includes depth and intrigue. It allows the audiences to delve much deeper into Samuel's psyche as he faces his quelched feelings and uncovers the reality.

The cinematographic design of the movie is notable for developing an ethereal and dream-like aura. This lines up completely with the film's styles of memory and loss. The lavish rural landscapes where the majority of the movie is shot adds an element of fond memories and peace - a stark contrast to the emotional chaos developing within the characters.

Styles and Interpretation
"Till Human Voices Wake Us" aims to provoke introspection about love, memory, and the human condition. The narrative checks out the depths of puppy love and its irreplaceable imprint, mirrored through Samuel's failure to proceed. His journey challenges audiences with concerns about dealing with loss and the level to which one can reduce their authentic sensations.

The film's title, a verse from Eliot's poem, suggests an inevitable awakening from the slumber of avoidance. This is encapsulated in Samuel's difficult course towards fixing up with Silvy's loss and unearthing his suppressed emotions.

Final Thoughts
"Till Human Voices Wake Us" explores the extensive intricacies of human emotions and memories. Coupled with outstanding efficiencies and a hauntingly lovely cinematic expression, the movie offers a genuine exploration of love, loss, and memory. Regardless of its melancholic undertone, it imparts hope and enlightens about the human ability to reconcile with the past and progress.

Top Cast

  • Lindsay Lohan (small)
    Lindsay Lohan
    Lana
  • Jordan Weller (small)
    Jordan Weller
    Jordan
  • Casie Chegwidden
    Ondine
  • Adam Lindo (small)
    Adam Lindo
    Swat Team Leader
  • Alissa Bourne (small)
    Alissa Bourne
    Selkie
  • Karl Verkade
  • Stefani Sober
  • Shayan Munshi (small)
    Shayan Munshi
  • Deanna Chuzhinina