Sweet Thing

I was at the Berlin Film Festival for the premiere. There was a full house. I felt like one of the kids in the film. Wanted to be with them. Understood what they were going through. And I don't think I was alone. I don't think there was a dry eye in the house. The camera walked you right into those peoples lives. When the film came to an end and the director was announced along with the cast and crew as they walked onto the stage the applause told me that I was not alone!

I knew In the Soup from Alexandre Rockwell, which I loved! I was so deeply moved by Sweet Thing: the kids (especially future star Lana & her beautiful voice!), the b&w image, the retro feel of the whole film... I recommend it highly!!

Rockwell is at the peak of his filmmaking prowess with SWEET THING. Beautiful, moving story that's obviously very personal, and in so doing, becomes all the more universal. Particularly for our era of anxiety and social distancing, the film takes us on a journey that most people won't be able to go on any time soon. Whether you're a fan of Rockwell's prior work, or new to him through this film, you'll be impressed.

Tender, honest and rich in imagination, Sweet Thing is a moving journey of discovery. It features gorgeous performances that make you laugh and break your heart.

An astonishing example of how little means you actually need to create something extraordinary; 2 charismatic kids, a few actors of infectious talent, and a deft and empathic writer/director. They've crafted a transcendent film out of a few thousand dollars and a lot of soul.

I watched this in the Berlin Film Festival 2020: tender, poetic, and brutal in equal measure, Rockwell's film is filled with poetry that speaks to a child's resilience in hard times. The film is aesthetically and tonally unique, shot in black and white that recall classical films of yore with bursts of color that reflect the joy and creative sprit of childhood. This is independent film at its finest and in its truest expression -- shot with a tiny crew, the film's rough hewed nature and free-spritedness is only possible without the oversight of the Hollywood machine. Films of this nature are a rare beast in this increasingly commercialized environment. Truly one of a kind gem -- my highest recommendation.