Stop me if you’ve heard this one before. A depressed 28-year-old has to reconnect with his estranged sister, box up his dead dad’s stuff, and make it back in time for dinner with his grieving mother. Still waiting for a punchline? So is he.
Cast:
Garrett Sauer as Thomas
Chloe Leczel as Marie
Patricia Reed as Jennifer
Meghan LeVota as Rachel
Dave Clapper as Nicholas
Jeff Moore as Jeff
Crew:
Directed by: Garrett Sauer
Written by: Garrett Sauer & Chloe Leczel
Executive Producer: Axe StockWil
Score by: Owen Earl
Camera Operator: Jason Tarwater
Special thanks to Russell Galloway
Artist & Show Details:
Jackson Miranda –
The film is both moving and heartwarming! Filled with great performances, music, and interesting visuals. It examines how families grapple with unfortunate circumstances and confront the reality of supporting a loved ones in their journey of healing.
JT –
A compelling take on dealing with grief, estrangement and mental illness. A very worthy first feature for this filmmaker.
David –
This film tells a powerful story of grief and loneliness and how one family manages it. It handles this ironic facet of loneliness beautifully in that each of the family members are struggling with it in their own unique and isolating ways, and it isn’t until the characters open up and express themselves that they are able to find the similarities and feel less alone. I’d like to think this film invites the viewers to seek for and invite similar connections in their own lives to work towards overcoming loneliness.
In addition to the narrative, the acting, soundtrack, and cinematography are just as equally wonderful. This film is a must watch!
Michele Stidham (verified owner) –
The dialogue between brother and sister was so realistic, as was the grieving Mom’s attempts to smooth things over with food. The film illustrates how family members don’t really understand the struggles they each are facing. Great soundtrack, too
RRH –
I thoroughly enjoyed April Fool! The brother-sister relationship Garrett and Chloe portrayed on-screen is brilliant! The film is grounded by an incredibly written script and played out by very authentic characters.
Huge props to Owen Earl for the beautiful score. Go check out this film if you get a chance.
Tess –
A heartfelt debut with an important message at its core. Film had moments of real emotional depth. To me, it was a reminder that grief is deeply personal and that we all navigate it differently. That message hit home in a powerful way, and I think it will resonate with many others, too. Music was amazing… seriously… huge props to Owen
Jeffrey Smith –
I enjoyed April Fool…well written with no clear happy endings, but hope, and that’s about all we can ask for. Two main characters we’re well acted, although another key member seemed out of their league but wasn’t in enough scenes to disrupt the overall flow and mood.
The sound was a bit too weak at moment which was frustrating.
A great first attempt at filmmaking and worthy of a Best of Venue. Nice job.