A Film About Connection and Misunderstanding
The lines that divide people are often smaller than we think. While we may focus on the differences between us, these barriers can dissolve when we see how someone fits into our lives. However, they can just as easily rise again if things don’t go as planned. These themes are central to We Strangers, a new film that opens in limited release this Friday.
Directed by Anu Valia, the film is inspired by her own childhood experiences in Gary, Indiana, where the story is set. It has already made an appearance at the SXSW festival in 2024 and is now making its way to a broader audience.
The Story of We Strangers
The film follows Ray (Kirby Howell-Baptiste), a cleaning woman who works for the Patel family, led by Mr. Patel (Hari Dhillon). Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Jean (Maria Dizzia), a curious neighbor who asks her to work at her home as well. During her time there, Ray develops a unique skill that catches Jean’s attention.
Jean becomes fascinated by Ray’s talent and wants to see it in action. As Ray continues to play along with the lie, she becomes the center of attention among Jean, Mr. Patel’s wife Tracy (Sarah Goldberg), and their friends. But can Ray maintain the illusion?
In addition to navigating the complexities of her job, Ray is also dealing with challenges at home. She is managing relationships with her mother (Tina Lifford) and sister (Kara Young). Things become more complicated when Tracy and her daughter (Mischa Reddy) get involved, putting pressure on Ray from all sides.
A Review of We Strangers
We Strangers is a short film that runs about 80 minutes long. It serves as a quick character study of the world and the people within it. There are clear signs of personal connection for Valia, but the film doesn’t always deliver a complete or compelling experience.
Kirby Howell-Baptiste delivers a solid performance, with some standout moments in her role. However, many of the characters and the overall plot feel underdeveloped, which makes the main action and the final act feel abrupt. It's also unclear what message the film aims to convey.
Despite this, We Strangers has resonated with festival audiences. Those interested in the subject matter might find a stronger connection to the characters when the film is released in theaters. While I found the concept interesting and appreciated the moments of brilliance, the film didn't fully come together in the end.
Release Details
We Strangers will be available in limited release starting Friday, August 22. It will also be available on VOD beginning Tuesday, September 9.
For those looking for the latest reviews and insights, there are several sources offering perspectives on the film. Whether you're a fan of character-driven stories or simply curious about the themes explored in We Strangers, the film offers a unique look at the complexities of human connection.
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