Parallel Chords is a heart-wrenching indie drama that revolves around the life of a talented young musician named Alex Walker, played by Rachel Ann, as she navigates her way through a difficult past and an uncertain future. The film is directed by Catherine Dudley-Rose and features an incredible soundtrack that seamlessly weaves through the narrative.
The story begins with Alex returning home to her estranged family after dropping out of music school in New York. Her father (Bjorn Johnson), an accomplished musician himself, is less than thrilled with her decision and pressures her to pursue a career in classical music rather than the pop rock she loves. Meanwhile, her mother (Laura Kirk), who suffers from depression and alcoholism, struggles to connect with her daughter, further straining their already fractious relationship.
As Alex attempts to reconcile with her family and chart her own path, she is simultaneously haunted by the tragic events of her childhood. Through a series of flashbacks, we see Alex as a young girl, grappling with the emotional abuse she endured at the hands of her father and the painful loss of her twin sister. These scenes are interwoven with the present-day narrative, providing insight into Alex's psyche and illuminating the reasons behind her complex relationships.
Throughout the film, we watch as Alex navigates various challenges, including a contentious romantic relationship, a fraught audition with a symphony orchestra, and her father's insistence that she abandon her true passion for music. By the time the climactic scene arrives, where she must perform a piece that is both technically challenging and emotionally taxing, we are fully invested in her journey and rooting for her every step of the way.
One of the most striking aspects of Parallel Chords is its use of music as a storytelling device. Alex is a talented guitarist and singer-songwriter, and her performances are woven throughout the film with expert timing and precision. Through her music, we catch glimpses of her inner world - her pain, her joy, her longings - in a way that words alone could never fully capture.
Another notable feature of the film is its sensitive portrayal of mental health issues. Alex's mother is not just a caricature of a 'drunk mom'; she is a complex character whose struggles are presented with nuance and empathy. Similarly, Alex's own experiences with trauma and depression are portrayed with honesty and sensitivity, without ever succumbing to clichés or oversimplifications.
Overall, Parallel Chords is a powerful and moving film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. With its strong performances, evocative music, and deft handling of complex themes, it is a masterful example of independent filmmaking that deserves to be seen and appreciated by a wider audience.
Parallel Chords is a 2018 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes.
It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.9.
