Review: ‘Ghostlight’ makes an expressive, subtle argument for the healing power of theater

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As a cinephile who has spent years immersed in the world of films, I have seen my fair share of stories about people trying to find their way through life’s challenges. But the films of Kelly O’Sullivan and Alex Thompson stand out for their deep sense of empathy and authenticity. Their latest work, “Ghostlight,” is a simple yet profound portrait of a man named Dan, played by Keith Kupferer, who stumbles upon community theater as a means of healing from his personal turmoil.

The movies created by Kelly O’Sullivan and Alex Thompson convey authentic emotions as they follow individuals on their journeys to make amends for themselves while forming meaningful bonds with others and discovering inner depths.

I supported two Chicago-based filmmakers and life partners on their journey as they made their feature debut in 2020 with “Saint Frances.” I was thrilled to see them bring their unique perspectives to the table as both writer (O’Sullivan) and director (Thompson). The story revolves around a aimless 30-something character who finds friendship in the 6-year-old girl she’s nannying. Their second feature, “Ghostlight,” which we co-directed, is another small-scale indie drama brimming with emotion. Co-writing the script allowed me to pour my heart into a story that fearlessly tackles the big feelings that can sometimes feel overwhelming.

In this heartwarming production, the camera and the stage share the same family connections. Director O’Sullivan had long envisioned Keith Kupferer for the role of Dan, a construction worker facing personal struggles who discovers the community theater’s “Romeo and Juliet” production. A wonderful coincidence: Katherine Mallen Kupferer, their actress daughter, plays Dan’s fiery daughter Daisi, while partner Tara Mallen, an esteemed Chicago actor, portrays his wife Sharon. With such a tightly-knit family cast, “Ghostlight” promises an extraordinary level of intimacy – a consistent theme in O’Sullivan and Thompson’s collaborations.

In simpler terms, the duo creates movies with relatable characters dealing with authentic scenarios. While the plot of “Ghostlight” may include exaggerated circumstances and unlikely coincidences, isn’t that also how life can feel at times?

The enigmatic emotional depth of “Ghostlight” is better experienced by the audience as Dan’s story gradually unfolds, revealing a heart-wrenching core akin to a flower blossoming. Initially, he’s dealing with high levels of stress and trying to keep his family together despite his troubled daughter and exhausted wife. One day, Rita (notable actress Dolly de Leon from “Triangle of Sadness”), an actor from the local community theater, witnesses Dan losing control during his road-work job and invites him to join a rehearsal for “Romeo and Juliet.” “What’s this?” he queries. “Your salvation,” she responds.

As Rita, Dolly de Leon, center, delivers a beguiling and feisty performance in “Ghostlight.”
(Luke Dyra / IFC Films)

As a cinephile involved in community theater, I can tell you that casting a show isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we have to beg, borrow, or even steal to get the right people for our production. So, it’s not surprising that Rita managed to persuade Dan, a blue-collar worker, to join us for rehearsals. Initially reluctant, Dan eventually gave in and participated in our improv games, meditation sessions, and script work. These oddball characters became an escape for him, offering him the chance to be someone else, even if just for a short while. Deep down, Dan needed this more than he let on. And as we delved deeper into O’Sullivan’s “Romeo and Juliet” script, it became clear that certain aspects of the play resonated with Dan in a profound way – a connection he hadn’t expected to discover.

Kupferer makes an instant impact on the screen. While it seems unusual to label his performance as a breakthrough given his extensive background in theater and television, including roles in films by Christopher Nolan, Michael Mann, and Steve McQueen, this leading film part represents uncharted territory for him. Mallen Kupferer is an intriguing new find, a fiery teenager who not only expresses raw emotion but also portrays more complex teenage attitudes. Daisy, played by Kupferer, dominates her repressed father, demanding that he engage with her intense emotions at her level.

De Leon, a well-known figure in Philippine local theater, seamlessly joins the Midwestern theater group and breathes life into her character, Rita. As a struggling New York actor unexpectedly returning to Chicago for a role with the locals, she finds a connection in Dan – someone in need of guidance and a fresh perspective. De Leon brings an alluring and spirited portrayal of Rita, who serves as a catalyst for the story’s development despite being a somewhat magical character.

In a subtle yet engaging manner, O’Sullivan and Thompson construct cinematic realms that invite you to stay longer. Their characters, relatable and authentic, face familiar struggles, yet respond with an extra dose of compassion, elegance, humor, and resourcefulness than we often encounter in daily life. Through their work, we are granted access to observe people as they navigate emotional hurdles, revealing the depths of their emotions through raw displays of sadness, shame, rage, love, and absolution.

“Ghostlight” is an exquisite and emotionally resonant tale that showcases art’s healing power. Yet, it’s essential to remember that it’s the individuals who create the art that put in the effort. This touching homage highlights the journey behind the masterpiece.

Katie Walsh is a Tribune News Service film critic.

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2024-07-18 18:59