By Raushan Melton
Arts Editor
A poignant perspective on marriage was revealed through the independent film “Claire In
Motion”, relishing in scenic shots, haunting soundtrack, and impressive acting.
Directed by Annie J. Howell and Lisa Robinson and released in March of 2016, “Claire In
Motion” revolves around an upper middle class woman, Claire, who seems to have a balanced
family dynamic and lucrative job as a professor at the local university. When her husband goes
missing during a minimalistic camping trip, Claire’s stability begins to unravel as her son
grieves.
Claire is a flat, typical character, but with a talented performance by Betsey Brandt, her
composure breaks realistically and a new dimension is created. Brandt gives believable
breakdowns and reactions, especially towards her husband’s secret friend. With an abrasive
attitude and an internal emotional struggle, Brandt’s portrayal of a wife whose marriage has
crumbled is convincing and avoided being overdone.
An eloquent soundtrack also brings the film to life. With electronic noises, the music
compliments the film and renders suspense or gentle dismal for viewers. The soundtrack adds a
greater sentiment to the overall film.
The expressive colors throughout each scene add to the film’s melancholic tone. Pale
blues, greys, and whites flutter within shots where Claire is picking up her son Connor from
school, or laying in bed thinking about her lost husband. Rich greens and wood accents
compliment when the film focuses on the husband and his mysterious, perhaps purposeful,
disappearance. The incorporation of the shades throughout the film add an extra dimension of
emotion, tying the heart rending film together.
Overall, “Claire in Motion” was imposing through its meaningul coloring, noteworthy
acting, and tranqmusic. Though slow paced, “Claire In Motion” still gripped viewers and left
them questioning marriage and its disconnections.
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