Today, it is nearly impossible to find wholesome movies. Hollywood is over saturated with crazy special effects, obnoxious foul comedy, and over sexualization. It is often a necessity to look outside of the box to find a meaningful film, which speaks from the heart and to the soul. I was recently given the opportunity to watch the 2014 drama, Fragile World. Many will not have heard of the film, because it doesn’t fit Hollywood’s qualifications. Nonetheless, the film has gained a following on the festival circuit, while picking up awards for Best Director, Best Narrative Feature, and Best Actress.

The subject matter is not for the faint of heart and the inclusion of faith will definitely send many modern movie enthusiasts fleeing in the other direction. That is unfortunate. Fragile World doesn’t possess the characteristics of a modern Hollywood blockbuster and that is what makes it so great. The film was written by Sandy Boikian during one of the most painful times of her life. The emotions experienced during this trying time are clearly evident within the film itself. The main character, Rosalie (Alexa Jansson), feels like an embodiment of the feelings Boikian undoubtedly experienced, while writing the film beside of her father’s hospice bed.

So, what is it all about? Fragile World puts the viewer into the shoes of Rosalie, a lonely, depressed interior decorator. Rosalie has faced many recent hardships, including a breakup and the death of her father. As someone, who suffers from a history of delusions, Rosalie is prescribed medication to control her symptoms. Early in the film, she discovers the most wonderful guy, August (Benjamin Keepers). The encounter prompts Rosalie to toss away her medication. She also develops a close friendship with a colleague, Britt (Noelle Perris). Unfortunately, Rosalie’s past continues popping up at the most unfortunate times.

A visit from her ex, Logan (Chad Bishop), sets off a chain of events, which change the entire dynamic of the movie and shatter everything the viewer thought to be real. While Rosalie struggles with her own inner conflicts, Britt is handed a music CD from an unknown artist and instructed to find the artist responsible. A conversation between Logan and Britt unravels a mystery, which will keep the viewer intrigued and engaged throughout the duration of the film.

 

Rosalie soon discovers her new friend, August, may be nothing more than a figment of her imagination, while Britt grows closer to a troubled musician, Fitz (Marco Aiello). As the movie carries on, several twists and turns keep things fresh and exciting. The sheer cleverness of Fragile World is undoubtedly one of its most admirable attributes. The film also possesses originality, which is nearly impossible to find in mainstream movies. Sandy Boikian interlinked reality and fiction to craft a masterful, thought-provoking film, which explores very serious subject matter.

As someone, who has a very low tolerance for bad acting, I was quite impressed with the cast of Fragile World. Alexa Jansson most certainly leads the way with her realistic dramatization of a troubled woman attempting to find normalcy in her life. Britt counterbalances Rosalie by remaining optimistic and upbeat.

My only real gripe with Fragile World is the somewhat rushed conclusion. Nonetheless, it is hard to fault the film. Whether or not you consider yourself to be a Christian, the movie offers plenty to cheer about. The acting is great, the storytelling is consistent and provoking, and the message is full of hope. Fragile World will definitely resonate with those, who are brave enough to watch it.

Rosalie’s plight is one that is familiar and August provides the perfect vehicle to guide her out of the darkness. Or, so we think. In the end, it is Rosalie’s faith that gives her the hope needed to overcome the obstacles in her way. I didn’t know what to expect going in. I’ll admit Fragile World exceeded my expectations. It should do the same for anyone willing to confront the perils of depression, loss, and accept the fragile nature of the human mind. A solid 8.5 out of 10 is deserved. To learn more about Fragile World, be sure to check out the film’s official website at FragileWorldMovie.com.