Light of My Life

Light of My Life is a 2019 post-apocalyptic drama written, directed, and starring Casey Affleck. The film is set in a world where a deadly pandemic has killed most of the female population, leaving men in a bleak and desolate existence. Against this backdrop, we follow the journey of a man named Dad (Casey Affleck) and his young daughter, Rag (Anna Pniowsky), as they try to survive in a world that has become hostile towards women.

As the story unfolds, we learn that Dad and Rag are on the run, hiding out in the woods and constantly on the move. They communicate through made-up languages and codes, avoiding contact with other people whenever possible. Dad is fiercely protective of Rag, going to great lengths to keep her safe and shield her from the danger that lurks around every corner.

The film is an exploration of the bond between father and daughter, as well as an examination of the ways in which societal norms and expectations have shaped our relationships with one another. As Dad and Rag journey through the wilderness, they encounter various groups of men who have taken advantage of the pandemic to exert control and dominance over others. Dad struggles to maintain his own moral code while keeping his daughter safe, and as the film progresses, we see how deeply the trauma of the pandemic has affected both of them.

Anna Pniowsky delivers a remarkable performance as Rag, imbuing the character with a sense of vulnerability and resilience that is both authentic and compelling. Her scenes with Casey Affleck are some of the film's strongest, highlighting the complexity of their relationship and the challenges they face as they try to navigate a world in which women are seen as property rather than people.

In addition to Pniowsky and Affleck, the film features strong supporting performances from Tom Bower and Elisabeth Moss, who both bring depth and nuance to their roles as members of a community living on the margins of society.

Visually, the film is stark and haunting, with director Affleck using the barren landscapes and muted color palette to convey a sense of hopelessness and despair. The film's score, composed by Daniel Hart, is also a standout, providing a haunting backdrop to the characters' struggles.

Overall, Light of My Life is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film that explores themes of loss, trauma, and the resilience of the human spirit. While some viewers may find the film's pacing slow, its meditative quality and focus on character make it a rewarding viewing experience.