Pieces of Us

A feature-length drama directed by Ben Fullman, written by Tim Seyfert and starring himself and Sinead Ferguson, Lisa Leilani and Rory Wilton.

 

This sentimental film focuses on the lives of a young artist named Delilah (Ferguson) and Jack (Seyfert), a middle-aged famous author. The story takes place in Cornwall, where Delilah lives and Jack is passing through as he is doing a tour to promote his latest book. Delilah approaches him and states that Evelyn (Leilani), a former partner of Jack, was her mother. As the two of them proceed to build a rapport between them, they also reminisce about the past and consider their lives.

 

This feature would not have the deep emotional impact that it has, had it not been for the wonderful music by James Coulthard. Beautiful piano and violin melodies create an atmosphere that feels melancholic and also tender and magical. Accompanied by the great score, the screenplay concentrates on the situation that arises between Delilah and Jack, with flashbacks revealing their past. Revelations and inner struggles are the main elements that make drama in this story, a story that basically consists of the consequences of adultery.

 

Seyfert's script effectively explores the characters and their emotions and personal issues and he also delivers a great performance as a recognised writer who finds himself forced to deal with his past actions while being hassled by his obnoxious assistant. Ferguson's role is that of a youngster, a talented painter who lives with a workaholic partner (Tommy Lumley) and seems to believe that she needs Jack in order to understand certain things regarding her life and family. Leilani plays Delilah's mother, a university lecturer who deeply cares for her daughter and her husband (Wilton) and is torn apart by her careless action that ends up putting her family through very harsh times. Wilton is quite likeable as a supportive husband and father. The strong acting from all the main cast adds a lot of value.

 

Looking into the themes in this story, there are numerous and they are heavy. The plot dwells into painful subjects including loss, infidelity and regrets, creating a great deal of drama. On the other hand, it also explores the significance of support, forgiveness, self-reflection and family.

Pieces of us is Fullman's debut as a director of a feature film. Filming was executed entirely in Cornwall and Fullman's methodical directing perfectly captures the beauty of the area, with wonderful shots that reveal the nature, including great beaches and all of this is significantly supported by Andy Qualtrough's superb cinematography.

 

A heart-warming film that revolves around an eventful encounter that changes two lives and it also works as a family drama. This is an emotional viewing about coming to terms with the past and acknowledging how much people need each other.