The Song Of Sway Lake

The Song of Sway Lake is a 2018 independent drama film directed by Ari Gold. Set in the picturesque countryside of upstate New York, the film tells the story of a young man named Ollie Sway, who seeks to uncover the mysterious secrets surrounding his family's lake house, including the story behind the long-lost record of his grandfather's music.

The film stars Rory Culkin as Ollie, a wealthy young man who is struggling to come to terms with his father's suicide as well as his own sense of purpose in life. Ollie is joined on his quest by his best friend, Nikolai (Robert Sheehan), a Russian immigrant who has his own demons to face, and a woman named Isadora (Isabelle McNally), with whom Ollie becomes romantically entangled.

The film is steeped in nostalgia and a sense of longing for a bygone era. The lake house, with its vintage decor and old family portraits, provides a perfect backdrop for the story's themes of memory, loss, and regret. Gold's direction is particularly effective in capturing the beauty of the natural setting, with sweeping vistas of the lake and the surrounding woods.

The soundtrack is a crucial component of the film, as it revolves around the music of Ollie's grandfather, who was a famous big band leader in the 1940s. The hunt for his long-lost record becomes a metaphor for Ollie's search for meaning in his own life. The film features a number of musical performances, including a haunting rendition of the classic American folk song "The Water is Wide" by the film's lead actress, Elizabeth Peña.

The Song of Sway Lake is also notable for its strong performances by the three leads. Culkin brings a quiet intensity to the role of Ollie, conveying the character's emotional turmoil with subtle gestures and expressions. Sheehan, who is perhaps best known for his comedic roles, impresses as Nikolai, a tortured artist who finds solace in music. And McNally is luminous as Isadora, a free-spirited young woman who provides a much-needed source of warmth and hope.

Overall, The Song of Sway Lake is a beautifully crafted film that speaks to the universal human experience of grappling with loss and regret. Its gorgeous cinematography, evocative soundtrack, and strong performances make it a must-see for fans of independent cinema.