By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
"A Bit of Light" is a quiet, yet powerful drama directed by
Stephen Moyer (TV's "Sexy Beast") and written by
Rebecca Callard (TV's Detectorists"). The film is based on the stage play of the same name by Callard. It stars
Anna Paquin ("True Spirit) as Ella, a 40-year-old recovering alcoholic, who faces the daunting task of rebuilding her life after temporarily giving up custody of her young daughters to her ex-husband, Joseph (Youssef Kerkour, "Napoleon").
Ella’s emotional turmoil is palpable as she grapples with her situation. But hope arrives unexpectedly in the form of a 13-year-old boy named Neil, (a phenomenal debut from Luca Hogan). Let me just state now for the record. Hogan's performance is simply remarkable, and this kid already has my Critics Choice Awards vote for "Best Young Performance."
Neil, wise beyond his years, observes Ella during her solitary moments at the park. His curiosity leads him to introduce himself and engage her in conversation. Ella is taken aback by Neil's inquisitiveness and that he has been closely watching her.
Neil's life isn't as straightforward as he claims. He speaks of older parents who don't worry about him when he's out, and he describes himself as self-sufficient. Despite his young age, Neil possesses a depth of understanding that surprises Ella. Their shared love for Prince becomes a bonding point, but there is more to their connection.
As Ella and Neil form a strictly friendly relationship, she repeatedly insists that she's not a good person. Neil, however, disagrees. He listens to Ella's struggles and shares his insights, leaving her wondering how this perceptive young boy can see beyond her flaws.
Ella's father, Alan (Ray Winstone, TV's "The Gentlemen"), expresses concern about her spending time with a young kid for obvious reasons. Yet, Ella persists, and their interactions lead her to open up and acknowledge her ongoing battle with her inner demons. Neil's presence becomes a catalyst for positive change in Ella's life.
While Winstone's emotional and supportive portrayal of Ella's father anchors the film, it's the affecting moments in "A Bit of Light" between Paquin and Hogan that truly shine through.
Editor's Note: Be sure to catch my N2Entertainment.net movie talk segment on the Kitty O'Neal Show Fridays now at 5:17 p.m. and 6:47 p.m. on radio station KFBK 93.1 FM and 1530 AM.
Look At This Trailer For
"A BIT OF LIGHT"
Lana K. Wilson-Combs is a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association (BFCA), The American Film Institute (AFI), and a Nominating Committee Voting Member for the NAACP Image Awards.
