A World Away (2019)

"A World Away" (2019): A Haunting Tale of Grief and Resilience

Introduction

"A World Away" is a poignant psychological drama and fantasy film released in 2019 that takes viewers on an emotional journey through grief, healing, and hope. Directed by Érick Avari and written by Alina Shkrudlo, this movie blends elements of mystery and supernatural in an intimate story about loss and moving forward.

Plot Summary

At the heart of A World Away is the story of Ava (played by Landry Bender), a young girl grappling with the sudden and tragic death of her mother. Consumed by sorrow and confusion, Ava finds herself caught between the sorrow of her current life and a mysterious otherworldly dimension she can access—a realm her departed mother appears to inhabit.

Determined to reconnect and find closure, Ava begins exploring this alternate world, confronting haunting memories and supernatural forces. Along this journey, she encounters Carmen (portrayed by Carmen Blanchard), a complex character who helps guide her through this liminal space, offering insight into the mysteries that bind the living and the dead.

The film delicately weaves themes of grief, family bonds, and the search for meaning when faced with unspeakable loss. The line between reality and fantasy blurs, inviting audiences to reflect on their own understanding of life, death, and what might lie beyond.

Main Cast

• Landry Bender as Ava: Bringing a nuanced and heartfelt performance, Landry captures the innocence and turmoil of a grieving child who desperately yearns for comfort and answers.
• Carmen Blanchard as Carmen: A pivotal figure in the story’s supernatural world, Carmen’s presence is mysterious yet grounding, shaping Ava’s journey with wisdom and compassion.

While the film focuses heavily on these two characters, the supporting cast also contributes to the atmospheric and emotional depth of the film, though the central narrative revolves around Ava’s personal experience.

Director and Writer

Érick Avari, best known as an actor with a respected career in Hollywood, makes his directorial entrée here, demonstrating a deft hand at crafting mood and emotional resonance. His direction helps balance the film’s delicate themes without tipping too far into melodrama, maintaining subtlety and intimacy throughout.

Screenwriter Alina Shkrudlo’s script forms the backbone of the movie’s ethereal and thoughtful narrative. With a talented focus on character development and emotional authenticity, Shkrudlo invites audiences to engage deeply with Ava’s story and the enigmatic world she traverses.

Genre and Style

A World Away is primarily categorized as a Hollywood psychological fantasy drama. It merges the emotional gravity of a family tragedy with mystical elements that evoke a dream-like atmosphere. The film’s pacing is deliberately measured, allowing viewers to immerse themselves fully into Ava’s internal and external journey. Its cinematography often emphasizes contrasts between the bleakness of Ava’s real world and the surreal, ethereal landscape of the other dimension.

Reception and Impact

Though A World Away is a more niche film, not a major blockbuster release, it has garnered attention for its heartfelt theme and performances, especially from Landry Bender. Critics have noted its sensitive handling of childhood grief and the imaginative approach to depicting internal emotional landscapes.

For audiences seeking a meaningful story that explores themes of loss and hope through a supernatural lens, this film offers a unique and touching experience.

Language and Availability

Notably, A World Away is accessible to diverse audiences as it has been dubbed in several languages, including Hindi and Urdu. This multilingual availability allows the film to reach broader viewers across different regions, particularly in South Asia, expanding its emotional reach beyond its Hollywood origins.

Soundtrack and Music

Unlike typical Bollywood films, A World Away does not feature an elaborate song and dance soundtrack. Given its Hollywood origins and serious tone, the movie’s music is primarily a subtle background score that enhances the mood and themes rather than showcasing vocal songs. This instrumentation plays a crucial role in underscoring the film's haunting and introspective atmosphere.

Conclusion

A World Away is not just a movie but an emotional expedition through a child’s psyche as they navigate loss and the challenges of healing. With strong performances, especially from Landry Bender and Carmen Blanchard, combined with Érick Avari’s sensitive direction and Alina Shkrudlo’s thoughtful writing, the film resonates on multiple levels. It is a beautiful blend of reality and fantasy that reminds us of the complexity of human emotions and the enduring bonds of family—even beyond death.

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