Above the Shadows

Above the Shadows is a compelling fantasy drama film with tones of love, placed against the backdrop of a supernatural aura. Released in 2019, directed by Claudia Myers, the film boasts an impressive ensemble cast which includes Olivia Thirlby, Alan Ritchson, and Jim Gaffigan.

The storyline revolves around a young woman named Holly, played exceptionally by Olivia Thirlby. Holly is not your average woman; she possesses a unique and unnatural characteristic: she is literally invisible to the world around her. The film explores her journey, a life unnoticed by the people, where she has been forgotten by her friends, family, and society at large.

Over time, Holly’s loneliness and isolation forces her to adapt and survive in an indifferent world where no one can see or interact with her. Thus, she becomes a solitary spectator of her own life and the life of others around her. Finding employment as a freelance photographer, she gets by unnoticed, capturing illicit photos of celebrities in their most vulnerable moments.

Alan Ritchson portrays the character of Shayne Blackwell, a disgraced MMA fighter who adds an intriguing dynamic to the story. Once at the pinnacle of celebrity life, Shayne is now grappling with his personal and professional downfall, his life unraveling due to his own choices. Holly finds herself intertwined with Shayne as she is drawn towards his struggle.

The chemistry between the lead characters is enjoyable and refreshing; it is not just about romance but about two individuals journeying together to find their places in the world. Holly helps Shayne regain his lost stardom while Shayne, the only person able to see Holly, helps her restore her existence in the world.

Jim Gaffigan brings a comedic touch to the film with his character, who adds an extra layer of complexity to the script. The plot unfolds around the interactions, decisions, and journeys of these characters, making for an entertaining and heart-tugging watch.

The film adopts a unique approach to the supernatural element, creating a high concept fantasy that is deeply rooted in human emotions and experiences. It explores deep themes such as isolation, invisibility, self-discovery, and redemption in a fresh and original way, making it a thought-provoking and intriguing film.

Olivia Thirlby shines in her role, capturing the loneliness and determination of Holly with nuanced performances. Her portrayal of the invisible girl is calculated and sympathetic, making the audience navigate through the emotions and hardships that Holly faces. Alan Ritchson impresses with his tough yet vulnerable portrayal of Shayne Blackwell, who's tragic and complex. And Jim Gaffigan offers excellent comic timing, bringing light relief to the otherwise serious storyline.

Director Claudia Myers has been praised for her deft handling of such an offbeat storyline. Her direction is spot-on, and she manages to extract stellar performances from her lead actors. The script is strong, with moments of both tension and humor and the story never seems to lose its pace or focus.

The cinematography of Above the Shadows deserves a special mention. It adds another dimension to the narrative. Long shots of crowded streets with one invisible entity, narrows down the chasm between anonymity and fame in a stirring fashion. The music and sound design is another strength of the film, perfectly accentuating each scene's emotion and lending an added layer of depth to the narrative.

Above the Shadows is much more than a simple supernatural love story. It is a film about the human condition, about the feeling of not being seen, heard, or understood. It's a unique cinematic gem that experiments with the familiar concepts of love and existence, leading the audience on a unique journey of self-discovery and redemption.

In conclusion, Above the Shadows offers an engaging viewing experience for those willing to step outside of their comfort zones and explore a supernatural romance steeped deep within the human experience. With an intriguing plot, impressive performances, and a unique concept, this film is a refreshing addition to the fantasy-drama genre.