Chalie's Letters (2017), director Elliott Hasler's moving and ambitious tale of his great-grandfather's experiences during the Second World War, exposes the audience not only to the raw emotions of conflict but equally to a rising new talent in the world of independent cinema.
Following POW Charlie Standing (also played by Elliot) across the idyllic Italian countryside, we learn of the Hasler family's epic fable of sacrifice and bravery. Shadowing Charlie's personal battle for freedom across the peninsula, is his beloved Ivy's battle against loneliness and the worry of a soldier's wife. Ivy 'Tup' Standing (played by Alice Rogers) gives a powerful performance - exploring the themes of motherhood and temptation among the ever so slightly alien streets of wartime Brighton.
For a film to be shot, directed and starred in by one man is a feat in and of itself. But when you consider this was all undertaken by someone only sixteen years of age, you gain a true appreciation of the film's depth and quality. There are sweeping vistas, moments of violence and shock, protracted silences that say more than a host dialogue, and even dodgy Italian accents(!); brought to us by none other than Elliott's father (David Hasler) - proving once and for all how personal this glorious labour of love is for Elliot's family.
Charlie's Letters is a film that does not shy away from life, so I insist, do not shy away from this genuine gem.
Following POW Charlie Standing (also played by Elliot) across the idyllic Italian countryside, we learn of the Hasler family's epic fable of sacrifice and bravery. Shadowing Charlie's personal battle for freedom across the peninsula, is his beloved Ivy's battle against loneliness and the worry of a soldier's wife. Ivy 'Tup' Standing (played by Alice Rogers) gives a powerful performance - exploring the themes of motherhood and temptation among the ever so slightly alien streets of wartime Brighton.
For a film to be shot, directed and starred in by one man is a feat in and of itself. But when you consider this was all undertaken by someone only sixteen years of age, you gain a true appreciation of the film's depth and quality. There are sweeping vistas, moments of violence and shock, protracted silences that say more than a host dialogue, and even dodgy Italian accents(!); brought to us by none other than Elliott's father (David Hasler) - proving once and for all how personal this glorious labour of love is for Elliot's family.
Charlie's Letters is a film that does not shy away from life, so I insist, do not shy away from this genuine gem.