Faith-Based Cinema’s Evolution
Faith-oriented films have really evolved over time. Just think back to those early days filled with the Kendrick brothers’ shoestring efforts like “Fireproof” and “Facing the Giants”. Remember how Kirk Cameron was one of the only recognizable faces in those films?
Or consider how the “God’s Not Dead” series faced relentless criticism, almost like critics were taking swings at piñatas.
Faith themes are now more integrated into the mainstream culture. Amazon’s teamed up with John Irwin’s Kingdom Story Company to create the popular House of David series on Prime Video. Meanwhile, Netflix is collaborating with Tyler Perry and Devon Franklin on original faith-based films, including last year’s “Ruth & Boaz”.
The latest film embraces faith-friendly narratives and boasts a cast with notable talents such as Oscar winners Hilary Swank (“Ordinary Angels”), Kelsey Grammer (“Jesus Revolution”), and Dennis Quaid (“I Can Only Imagine” series).
Breaking Boundaries
“Midwinter Break,” debuting in theaters this Friday, brings a fresh perspective that’s visually distinct and spiritually rich. This independent drama follows Stella and Jerry, portrayed by Lesley Manville and Ciaran Hinds, as they explore Amsterdam.
Their lengthy marriage faces challenges when Stella recalls a painful event from her past and an unfulfilled spiritual aspiration. While it doesn’t fit the mold of typical faith-based films, some reviewers have criticized it for smoothing out life’s rough edges a tad too much.
The story’s religious undertones are delicately approached, making it difficult to categorize completely, but it could still resonate on multiple levels.
Polly Findlay, the director of “Midwinter Break,” navigates the themes of marriage with a sensitivity rarely seen from a first-time filmmaker. Her experience in live theater certainly contributed to her nuanced direction.
Connecting Through Experience
Another upside? The pairing of two seasoned actors who convincingly portray a relationship on the brink of collapse. Both Manville and Hinds bring extensive stage experience, which Findlay said contributed to creating a “common vocabulary” during filming.
Three days of rehearsal allowed the chemistry between the on-screen couple to feel deeply rooted, almost as if it had been forged over decades.
“We went in and read [the script],” Findlay shared. “They preferred not to overplan, choosing instead to feel things out in the moment and improvise with one another.”
At ages 69 and 73, it’s rare to see a film that dives into the complexities of an older couple falling in love.
“That was the main draw for me…it’s an adult love story,” Manville noted. “That kind of narrative isn’t often portrayed on screen. Relationships involve a series of fresh starts. So while it’s not overly sentimental, it carries a sense of hope.”
A pivotal moment in the film sees Stella reflecting on a transformative childhood experience. Though it had faded over time, her journey to Amsterdam brings those feelings rushing back.
Unlived Lives and Longing
“For Stella, her faith is deeply personal and tied to her origins, the era of her birth, and her past experiences,” the director explained. “On a broader scale, her journey relates to a longing for a life that could have been.”
Manville effectively conveys this complex narrative arc.
“As she aged, if she’d taken different paths, she could have transformed into an entirely different Stella,” she reflected.
Exploring Layers of Faith
For Findlay, translating faith to the screen involves weaving together various layers of storytelling.
“In this film, faith represents a sense of longing. I sought an underlying feeling of yearning for something more,” she remarked, adding that the beautiful yet melancholic ambiance of Amsterdam enhances that sentiment.
“Midwinter Break” may carry a heavier tone, leaving audiences uncertain about whether the couple can bridge their emotional divide. It reflects both Stella’s convictions and the stark realities faced in enduring relationships.
This duality presents a backdrop for the film’s more challenging moments.
Findlay pointed out that some couples may find themselves at odds one minute, then later recognize the importance of what they’ve built together.
“Sometimes, our emotions fluctuate wildly…It’s not always a linear path from one feeling to another,” she explained. “Experiencing the full depth of those emotions—especially in darker times—is essential, and finding hope often depends on working through those challenging moments.”
