Relative

I absolutely love this film. Michael Glover Smith's style, writing and direction is warm, inviting, funny, clever yet not cheesy or predictable at all. The production is very high quality for an independent film. The real sites in Chicago made this tiny universe feel lived in and real. The editing was smooth yet not over-produced. There were wonderful references to music, movies, literature and theatre peppered throughout. The acting is SUPERB. From seasoned veterans like Wendy Robie and Francis Guinan, who brought gravitas to newcomers like Elizabeth Stam who was delightful. Emily Lape, a filmmaker in her own right, brought a sweetness and sadness to the ensemble that was mesmerizing. I also loved the little moments from the extras like "Skokie man," Hopleaf bartender and Norma's Daughter. Go see this film, in the theatre. It's stunning. Don't you dare miss it!