There's Something I Have to Tell You

An emotional short drama written and directed by Jamie Savarese and starring Reagan Kelly, Suzanne Kovi and Caroline Brauner. This project is Savarese's directorial debut and was inspired by her experiences.

The film centres on Anna (Kelly), a young American woman who travels to the Bahamas in order to help her estranged mother (Kovi) build a house. Kelly is harbouring a dark secret and she feels the need to disclose it to her parent. As time goes by during her stay overseas, Anna will struggle to find the courage to reveal what is causing her so much sorrow.

The narrative is non-linear and the majority of the scenes are brief. The screenplay focuses primarily on Anna's inner struggles and the relationship between her and her mother. It is implied that they have being apart for a while, however things are still OK and they go for a swim and work together on the construction of the home, along with the help of friendly locals. The scenes in the Bahamas alternate with flashbacks of Anna as a little girl, providing deeper exploration into her character.

Filming took place under challenging circumstances in the Bahamas, however, the cast and crew clearly overcame the obstacles as the film looks great, with numerous well-executed shots that capture the beauty of the Bahamas, all of which are enhanced by Liz Charky's terrific cinematography. Additionally, the beautiful music by Alexander Taylor increases the drama.

Kelly's character is a troubled woman who also has a purpose: to communicate to her mother what is tormenting her. Keeping her pain a secret is obviously tearing her apart and Kelly's dramatic performance expresses that fact very convincingly. Kovi is equally impressive, playing a middle-aged woman who is capable and caring, but unaware of her daughter's personal issues.

As the plot revolves around a person trying to reach out to someone, the significance of connection is a main subject. Other evident themes are family values, especially those that exist between a mother and her daughter. Furthermore, reminiscing the past and trauma are well within the picture.

A dramatic mother-and-daughter story. Savarese brings to the viewer a film that is quite moving and could encourage people to seek help when they are in need.