Bardo Blues

Bardo Blues is a 2017 film directed by Marcia Kimpton, an established actress, producer, and director who has a knack for presenting emotionally engaging stories with captivating cinematography. Marcia Kimpton shares the directing credits with Mark Haining.

Stephen McClintic plays the lead role of Jack – a mysterious and troubled young man burdened by his past. This film offers an up-close look into his life and his mental struggles, allowing viewers an intimate and, at times, heartbreaking glimpse into the world of those suffering from psychological disorders.

The movie title, Bardo Blues, is rooted in Tibetan Buddhism, where "Bardo" is perceived as the transitional state between life and death, the realm of the subconscious where the past, present, and future coexist. This term brilliantly encapsulates the paradoxical state of Jack's mind. His every day is a struggle as he often revisits his past traumas, while dealing with the present awkwardly and dreading the possible future. “Blues” references Jack's state of mind and his inability to escape his persistent sadness, as well as his love for jazz and blues music.

Throughout the film, Jack's less than perfect relationship with his schizophrenic mother (played by Gina Haining) and the confusion and pain associated with it are gradually revealed. Jack is not only struggling with his mental health issues, but also the loss of his mother. He is a man in grief, grappling with his personal demons and the harsh hand life has dealt him. Jack's conflict and his mother's struggles are portrayed sensitively, raising awareness about mental health and the impact it can have on family relationships.

It's not all gloom and torment, though. Jack's life takes an unexpected turn when he decides to escape to Thailand. He hopes the change of scenery and the promise of a fresh start might offer him some reprieve from his clouded mind. Thailand provides a much-needed contrast to his complicated life, with its vibrant culture, colorful landscapes, and the warmth of its people - depicted beautifully through excellent cinematography. Here, Jack encounters an array of interesting and distinctive characters, who play a crucial role in shaping his journey.

Among them is beautiful yet enigmatic girl, Julie (played by Marcia Kimpton), who adds more complexity to the story. Her own journey and hardships connect with Jack's in unexpected ways. The relationship between Jack and Julie, while intriguing, also helps to examine the connections and interactions between people with troubled pasts and how they perceive love.

The underlying themes of healing, acceptance, and redemption are stealthily interlaced into the storyline, accompanied by a splendid soundtrack that resonates with the raw emotional fabric of Bardo Blues.

Throughout the movie, the audience is invited to participate in Jack's ambivalent journey - caught between external reality and his chaotic inner self, past agonies and the potential for a happier future, pain and healing, isolation and connection. The excellent performances by Stephen McClintic and the supporting cast vivify these poignant emotions and dilemmas.

Bardo Blues is a film that treads a fine line between psychological thriller and drama. It depicts mental health with empathy and understanding while presenting a gripping narrative that keeps you hooked till the last frame. This reveal of the fragility and resilience of the human mind and spirit makes it a commendable cinematic experience. The film tests the waters of conventional storytelling by blending drama, spirituality, and an idiosyncratic style of narrative - a courageous attempt that underscores Marcia Kimpton's distinctive voice as a filmmaker.

In a nutshell, Bardo Blues is a unique exploration into human emotions and vulnerabilities, inviting us to confront our fears and encouraging us to set out on a journey of self-discovery and redemption. It is an emotionally intense, socially conscious yet extremely watchable film, casting an empathetic eye on the protagonist's struggle with his mental health. Without a doubt, it's a must-watch for anyone seeking a film with depth, complexity, honesty, and warmth.