Krisha

Krisha is a powerful and intense independent drama film from 2015 that tells the story of a middle-aged woman named Krisha who returns home for Thanksgiving after being away from her family for over a decade. The film is written and directed by Trey Edward Shults and stars Krisha Fairchild, the filmmaker's aunt, who delivers an unforgettable performance in the lead role.

The film begins with Krisha driving her car to a suburban home where she will be joining her family for Thanksgiving dinner. She is nervous and visibly scared, as it has been a long time since she has seen her relatives. Upon arrival, Krisha is greeted with mixed feelings from the family members, some of whom are happy to see her and some who are not so pleased. As the day progresses, we see Krisha struggling to fit in with the family and trying to make up for lost time.

Krisha's character is complex and multi-dimensional, and we learn that she has a troubled past with addiction issues. Throughout the film, we see her struggle with sobriety as she tries to resist the temptation to drink alcohol, which is freely flowing during the family gathering. Her inner demons come to the surface, and we get glimpses of her vulnerability and desperation as she tries to put on a brave face in front of her family.

The family dynamics are also explored in the film, and we see the tensions and conflicts arising between the various members. Krisha's strained relationship with her son Trey, played by Alex Dobrenko, is particularly noteworthy, and we see the unresolved issues between them come to a head during the course of the day. Krisha's sister Robyn, played by Robyn Fairchild, is also a significant character, and we see her frustration and anger towards Krisha, who she sees as unreliable and unstable.

The film is shot in a very intimate and personal style, with the camera often close to the actors' faces, emphasizing their emotions and reactions. The sound design is also exceptional, with a haunting score adding to the tension and atmosphere of the film. The use of long takes and slow-motion shots also helps to create a sense of unease and disorientation, as we see Krisha struggling to cope with the pressures of the family gathering.

Overall, Krisha is a raw and unflinching portrayal of a family in crisis, and the film is a remarkable achievement for Trey Edward Shults and his talented cast and crew. The film is not an easy watch, as it deals with heavy themes such as addiction, family strife, and emotional trauma. However, it is an engrossing and emotionally affecting film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.