WATCH THE TRAILER HERE
WATCH THE FILM HERE
First, the Recap:
What are we, really? Do we ascertain the meaning and magnitude of our existence solely by just, well, knowing we’re alive? Or, do we truly pause and take stock of the fact that the sum of it all is much farther reaching, meaningful, and created to be long-lasting. In this current time of tumult and unrest our beautiful world now finds itself residing in, what is needed more than ever is a reminder of exactly what blessings we actually have, bringing to bear the realization that not only will we persevere, but we are formulating new experiences, new connections, new elements to grasp onto while then taking needed moments to rediscover past times that seemed easier, subdued, to subsequently, we hope, become grateful in a refreshed way for what was while looking with hope instead of fear of what lies ahead.
Next, my Mind:
Pondering the thematic emphasis of times past, it is seeing a film such as this new 14-minute documentary short from writer/director/producer/editor Chris Esper under his shingle Stories In Motion that reminds me exactly why I’ve been so grateful to have found myself immersed in the independent film community around the world and helping to support their visions, storytelling, and unique grander perspectives when it comes to depicting the human journey. Whether via true story or fiction, it serves as that distinctive, emotional prompting and conviction to stop obsessing over all the negative, cynical atmospheres being promoted and focus on what we should at least strive to do even more–positivity.
Finding its foundational principals and purpose through the medium of personal home movie footage, we are the viewer are transported through decades of people’s lives that specifically and potently reflect that notion of “better, simpler times” but in a way that, this critic felt, was filled with a freshly invigorating, stirring, joy-inducing tone that allowed me to just sit back and do something I sadly don’t always find myself engaging in enough–SMILE. Is this not the reason we have been given the beauty of our minds so that we can recollect, reminisce, recall, recount all that we’ve experienced, especially the good, so that we can pull it up during spans of upheaval and find peace?
Illustrated through so many facets of what time brings via visuals of the holidays, family, children, birthdays, moments of total, candid silliness on camera, people young and old, representations of skills, personalities, and contributions to the world at large, even if it all has been contained within our own personal scope and circles. It’s the make-up of where we’ve traveled to, whether literally or figuratively, and how these things have impacted and affected us and those we cherish along the way. Does it mean things were ALWAYS calm and at ease “back then”? Of course not. But, seeing how this film so deftly determines to blatantly nudge us in a way that decimates pessimism and disenchantment with the direction events currently seem to be going is paramount to its message here, and gives us that shot in the arm of happiness and fond nostalgia to then apply right now.
It’s really an oasis of basic, uncomplicated creativity and proof (how about this, eh?) POSITIVE that this style of thematic exploration IS desperately needed now more than ever. The home movie format for the effort’s presentation opens up so many moments to laugh, appreciate the relatability of it all, even tear up some for those past times we ourselves have lived. What greatly aids this emotive, evocative path we witness is an equally poignant, redolent music score from composer Steven Lanning-Cafaro that carries our souls along with graceful wonder and helps to make us feel like we’re a direct part of everything seen. Again, this is all about memory and its power to be utilized to break the tensions of the now, and the combination of imagery and music here does a superb job to do so.
In total, “Yesteryear” is a dramatic, moving, inspiring, necessary short film effort in a time of utter chaos, a portrait of the building blocks of life and all that encompasses it. Some things are temporary, others longer-lasting, but the sum of it remains within us in mind, spirit, and heart forever. This is what we need to grasp onto. This is what we need to share with others. This is what we need to survive.
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
