The 51st Seattle International Film Festival opened with a bang on May 15 with seats full of local film lovers and visitors from around the world. Inundated with an enthusiastic audience, SIFF reminded all there of the importance of broadening one's Reel Word by seeing films made in other countries.
Seeing movies can be a great way to grow your perspective and understand what is affecting the world around you. SIFF wants to highlight this and encourage you to witness what is happening through all genres, including action, comedy, drama, horror, romance, science fiction, and animation.
The opening night featured Four Mothers, co-written by Irish brothers, Darren and Colin Thornton, and directed by Darren. The film is a wonderful heartfelt comedy about a man, Edward, an up-and-coming novelist, taking care of his elderly mother, and suddenly three more mothers.
We follow Edward through his stressful journey caring for his mother, Alma, whose life we learn mirrors his own. Both of these characters are doing the best they can, with their bravest faces on. It isn’t until they have three surprising house guests that they are thrown out of their comfort zones and forced to be vulnerable in a whole new way.
This is a laugh-out-loud, witty, emotional movie that reminds you of the love for your grandmother, mother, and all of the strong women in your life. While this movie will appeal to all kinds of audiences, queer men and their moms will find its story especially engaging and personally meaningful.
While Four Mothers was shown only for the SIFF Opening Night, this is a film worth following. Colin Thornton, attended the screening and encouraged everyone to review and keep track of the film on Letterboxd and IMDb. This is a must-see film, and deserves to be widely-accessible on all viewing platforms. Spreading the word can help in reaching that goal.
SIFF runs until May 25. There are so many amazing movies in all genres and for all audiences. As you enter SIFF’s Reel World your perspective on life is strengthened. This is an opportunity to come together as a community and see what’s going on outside of Seattle's bubble. Tickets are limited, so please buy your tickets now at https://www.siff.net/festival/passes-and-tickets. Looking forward to seeing you there.
Alden Perrine
Alden Perrine is a recent graduate from Washington State University. She is headed towards Vancouver Film School for their Writing in Film program next year. Alden is passionate about film and cannot wait to get started.
For more information about Seattle International Film Festival, visit https://www.siff.net/festival.
