Movie Review: ‘Scrap’ – A sister’s struggle and a brother’s love.

Vivian Kerr’s ‘Scrap‘ is a heartfelt and deeply resonant indie film that beautifully captures the complexities of familial love, personal pride, and resilience. Written, directed, and led by Vivian Kerr herself, this intimate drama peels back the layers of societal expectations to reveal the raw and relatable human struggles beneath. Through her portrayal of Beth, a single mother navigating the precarious balance of survival and secrecy, Kerr delivers a story that feels as real as it is moving.

The film introduces us to Beth in its opening minutes. We find her waking up in her compact SUV parked on a quiet residential street, surrounded by her belongings. This is her home now, a fact she’s desperate to keep hidden. Concerned neighbours occasionally knock on her window, forcing her to invent excuses and maintain appearances. Beth has lost her corporate job and her home. As she struggles to find a new job, she’s living out of her car while juggling the additional burden of protecting her young daughter, Birdie, from the harsh realities of their situation.

She has managed to keep all this hidden from her older brother Ben (played by Anthony Rapp), even though he is starting to suspect something is wrong. Beth has left Birdie, her 5-year-old daughter, in his care with the excuse that she is out of town on business. After several weeks and failed attempts to land a job she decides she has to at least go and make some time for her daughter.

Although Ben is a successful author, he’s no stranger to challenges of his own. He is conflicted between writing the book that he wants to and continuing with the series that has gained him some following and grace with his publishers. Also, he and his wife Stacy (played by Lana Parrilla) are in the midst of their third attempt at IVF, a journey fraught with emotional and financial strain. Despite his reservations, Ben’s unflinching love for his sister compels him to support her, even as Stacy’s patience wears thin.

The narrative deftly intertwines Beth’s battles with the slowly growing tensions in Ben and Stacy’s household. It also captures the support and love Ben has for his sister in the most simplistic yet moving ways. There are brief, sporadic flashbacks of their childhood and their shared grief of losing their parents which forced Ben to step up and be forced to take up more than necessary to make sure his baby sister is always protected. This history adds depth to Ben’s enduring tolerance for Beth’s secrecy and missteps. He’s been her safety net for as long as he can remember, and it’s a role he takes on with equal parts love and weariness.

Vivian Kerr’s portrayal of Beth is nothing short of exceptional. As both the writer and director, she brings an authenticity to the character that is palpable. Beth’s struggle to maintain composure while facing mounting pressure mirrors the silent battles many of us endure. Her performance captures the delicate balance between vulnerability and determination, making Beth’s plight both relatable and heart-wrenching. But it is not just her performance that stands out in this film.

Anthony Rapp’s portrayal of Ben is equally compelling. He navigates the character’s dual responsibilities as a brother and husband with remarkable precision. Ben’s love for Beth is unwavering, but it’s clear that his patience is being tested. His interactions with Stacy reveal the strain of balancing these relationships, yet he remains fair and compassionate throughout. Rapp’s ability to convey this complexity makes Ben a deeply sympathetic and admirable figure.

Lana Parrilla’s Stacy is a standout as well. She brings a subtle depth to the role, portraying a woman torn between her peace of mind and her desire to support her husband. Stacy’s moments of frustration are tempered by genuine concern for her family’s well-being, and Parrilla’s nuanced performance ensures that Stacy’s struggles feel just as vital as those of Ben and Beth.

Anthony Rapp and Vivian Kerr in SCRAP

Also, Vivian Kerr keeps the visual aesthetics of the film simple and grounded in its indie roots. She wisely avoids overcomplicating the cinematography or editing, allowing the performances and narrative to take centre stage. The choice to use a distinct orange tint for the flashbacks is a subtle but effective technique that helps separate past and present without disrupting the flow of the story. This simplicity enhances the film’s authenticity, grounding the emotional beats in a relatable reality.

The pacing of ‘Scrap‘ is steady, complementing the storytelling without feeling rushed or drawn out. Each scene is purposeful, driving the narrative forward while giving the audience space to connect with the characters. The interplay between Beth’s struggles and Ben’s dilemmas is handled with care, ensuring that both storylines feel balanced and impactful.

At its core, ‘Scrap‘ is a story about the importance of human connection. It’s about how love, patience, and understanding can help us navigate even the most challenging circumstances. The film’s pacing allows for its themes and message to settle in just as it reaches its climax. Reminding us that we all need someone to lean on and that love can often bridge the gaps left by life’s hardships.

I’d rate ‘Scrap‘ an 8/10. As a feature film debut from Vivian Kerr, she has succeeded in crafting a film that is as heartfelt as it is thought-provoking. For anyone seeking a story that feels both personal and universal. It reminds us of the power of love and the strength found in vulnerability,