Braking for Whales

Braking for Whales is a 2019 quirky indie comedy-drama directed by Sean McEwen, starring Tom Felton, Tammin Sursok, and Wendi McLendon-Covey, which brilliantly portrays an extraordinary adventure and the beautiful complexity of sibling relationships.

Tom Felton and Tammin Sursok play the lead roles of Brandon and Star, respectively, estranged brother and sister who are brought together by an unusual request written in their late mother's will. Known for their roles in Harry Potter and Pretty Little Liars respectively, these actors deliver compelling performances that beautifully capture the multifaceted layers of their complex characters.

Wendi McLendon-Covey, popularly recognized for her work in The Goldbergs, plays an attorney who informs the siblings about the peculiar and whimsical demands of their late mother's will – a will that can only be executed under some extremely bizarre conditions. Her role, though not too extensive, adds an interesting spark to the storyline.

As the film unfolds, Brandon, a gay marine biologist with an exceptional love for marine life, and Star, a fiercely independent and caustic stand-up comedian, are faced with a seemingly impossible task. Reuniting after years of estrangement, they must embark on a journey that takes them through the physical, emotional, and psychological path of healing, forgiveness, and acceptance. As they fulfill their late mother's last wish, they realize the hefty burden of family secrets and the power one's past can hold over their present.

Although the movie revolves around grief, loss, and estrangement, it is far from somber. The screenplay by Casie Tabanou and Sean McEwen is smart, original, and witty. It strikes a perfect balance between serious and humorous, giving the audience a chance to experience an emotional rollercoaster ride. The film uses a healthy dose of quirky humor and unexpected situations to tackle some heavy subjects, making it an entertaining watch.

Every scene in the movie is washed with authentic emotions and balanced with comic relief, which keeps the audience engaged and invested in the life journey of Brandon and Star. The manner in which their estranged relationship slowly strengthens with time is captured delicately, adding a layer of depth and poignancy to the narrative.

Tom Felton steps away from his more recognized role as Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter series to showcase a completely different side of his acting prowess. His portrayal of Brandon is sympathetic, genuine, and powerful. Tammin Sursok, on the other hand, slips effortlessly into her role as an emotionally stunted, smart-aleck, rebellious comedian Star. Her raw and honest emotionality is perfectly balanced with a strong comedic timing that lends itself brilliantly to the movie's overall tone.

Director Sean McEwen deserves credit for his able navigation through heavy emotions like grief and loss and delicately balancing them with humor. The direction is crisp and clear, making the film an engaging watch.

The beautiful landscapes encountered during Brandon and Star’s journey are expertly captured. The tranquility and the panoramic views of stunning locations, beautifully framed by cinematographer Justin Henning, add to the film’s overall appeal.

The film’s supporting characters, each with their quirks and peculiarities, are well-developed and add to the film’s charm. Each character, however small, plays a significant role in the main characters' lives and adds value to the narrative.

In conclusion, Braking for Whales is a feel-good movie that beautifully captures human emotions, the complexities of family ties, and the journey of healing and reconciliation. Its intelligent mix of comedy and drama, combined with impressive performances by the lead actors, make it a must-watch movie. This charming indie movie is bound to tug at your heartstrings while also tickling your funny bone.