“Parallel” (2024) Black Movie Review for those who have seen it or not seen it. If you’ve never seen it, this review will have you heading to your favorite place to watch it. If you have seen it, warning: after reading this article, you may want to watch “Parallel,” directed by Kourosh Ahari, again. It is a 2024 sci-fi film that delves into the themes of the multiverse and parallel universes, while poignantly addressing the complexities of grief, mental health, and familial relationships. The story follows Vanessa, a grieving mother who loses her son, Obe, and embarks on a journey through parallel universes. This film is a masterpiece of timing, acting, pacing, cinematography, and overall production, offering a nuanced portrayal of how unaddressed mental health issues can be more frightening than the supernatural elements it explores.
Whether intentional or not, the film has sparked conversations and done a fantastic job of intersecting topics that are not often paired together on screen. Let’s explore.
Confronting Mental Health in the Black Community
SPOILER ALERT: Skip to the next section to avoid plot reveals. This section contains spoilers.
“Parallel” (2024) masterfully juxtaposes parallel universes with different parts of the human psyche, offering a profound exploration of grief, identity, and self-discovery. The film follows Vanessa, who is deeply mourning the loss of her son and finds solace in the multiverse. Each parallel universe she encounters reflects various aspects of her inner turmoil, from denial and anger to acceptance and hope. The alternate realities serve as metaphors for the different stages of her grief, allowing the audience to witness the emotional complexities of her journey in a visually and narratively compelling way.
In one universe, Vanessa confronts a version of herself who is paralyzed by guilt and unable to move forward, while in another, she meets a more hopeful version who has found a way to cope with the pain. This interplay between the external exploration of parallel universes and the internal exploration of Vanessa’s psyche enriches the narrative, making it not just a sci-fi adventure but also a deep psychological drama. The film’s ability to weave these elements together highlights the multifaceted nature of human emotions and the profound impact of grief on the human spirit. By presenting parallel universes as reflections of the human psyche, “Parallel” offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the interconnectedness of our inner and outer worlds.
Confronting Mental Health in the Black Community
Historically, mental health issues have been a taboo subject in the Black community, often viewed as a weakness or something to be suppressed. The societal and cultural pressures to appear strong and resilient can often lead to the avoidance of addressing mental health problems. “Parallel” confronts this stigma head-on, illustrating that the avoidance of mental health issues can lead to even scarier consequences. Vanessa’s journey through parallel universes serves as a metaphor for her internal struggle with grief and depression. Her reluctance to confront her emotions manifests in her encounters with doppelgangers and alternate realities, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health rather than suppressing it.
In the film, Vanessa’s grief is palpable. She is unable to move on from the loss of her son, Obe, which not only strains her relationship with her husband, Alex, but also causes her to retreat into herself. This depiction is crucial as it shows the real and raw impact of grief, a topic often glossed over in mainstream media. The portrayal of Vanessa’s journey emphasizes the necessity of seeking help and the dangers of isolation and unaddressed mental health issues. Her journey through the multiverse can be seen as a quest for understanding and acceptance, highlighting the lengths to which people might go to avoid dealing with their pain.
The film’s approach to mental health is both refreshing and essential. By placing a Black woman at the center of a sci-fi narrative that explores these themes, “Parallel” breaks new ground. It not only challenges the stigmas associated with mental health in the Black community but also provides a narrative that resonates with a broader audience. Vanessa’s experiences are universal, yet her specific cultural context adds a layer of depth and relevance, making her journey all the more compelling.
Moreover, the film touches on the intergenerational aspects of mental health. Alex’s reference to their father’s stories and his own struggles with grief and guilt show how mental health issues can span generations. The family’s reluctance to openly discuss these issues mirrors the broader cultural tendency to avoid such conversations. “Parallel” advocates for breaking this cycle by showing the catastrophic consequences of ignoring mental health issues and the healing potential of addressing them head-on.
The film also highlights the importance of support systems. While Vanessa is the central figure, her interactions with Alex and Martel underscore the significance of having a support network. Alex’s struggle to balance his grief while supporting Vanessa exemplifies the challenges faced by caregivers. Martel’s role as a mediator and his own vulnerabilities add another dimension to the narrative, showing that everyone in the family is affected by mental health issues.
By addressing these themes through a sci-fi lens, “Parallel” makes the conversation about mental health more accessible. The genre allows for a creative exploration of complex issues, making them relatable to a wider audience. The film’s depiction of parallel universes serves as a metaphor for the different facets of mental health, illustrating how individuals might experience and cope with grief in diverse ways.
Timing and Pacing
The timing and pacing of “Parallel” are crucial to its impact. The film’s 90-minute runtime is meticulously crafted to build tension and maintain the viewer’s engagement. From the opening scene, where Vanessa is startled by a bird hitting the window, to the climactic moments of her discovering parallel universes, every scene is timed to perfection. The pacing allows for a gradual revelation of the multiverse concept, giving the audience time to absorb and understand the complexities of Vanessa’s journey.
The film opens with a serene yet unsettling scene that immediately sets the tone. Vanessa’s encounter with the bird hitting the window is a metaphor for the sudden and jarring impact of grief. This incident also serves as a precursor to the unraveling of the story, hinting at the underlying themes of transition and change. The pacing here is deliberate, allowing the audience to feel the weight of Vanessa’s emotions before diving into the sci-fi elements.
As the story progresses, the timing of key events keeps the viewer on edge. The discovery of Vanessa’s doppelganger is a pivotal moment, executed with precision to maximize its impact. The pacing in these scenes is tight, creating a sense of urgency and confusion that mirrors Vanessa’s state of mind. The film alternates between slower, contemplative moments and fast-paced, intense sequences, maintaining a balance that keeps the audience invested.
The climax, where Vanessa navigates through various parallel universes, is a masterclass in pacing. Each universe is explored just enough to convey its distinctiveness without overstaying its welcome. This rapid yet controlled exploration builds to a crescendo, leading to a thought-provoking and ambiguous ending. The decision to leave the ending open to interpretation is a bold move that pays off, encouraging viewers to ponder the film’s deeper meanings long after the credits roll.
In terms of timing, the film’s score and sound design also play crucial roles. The music swells and subsides in harmony with the narrative, accentuating moments of tension and release. The sound design, particularly the use of ambient sounds in the forest, enhances the immersive experience, making the parallel universes feel tangible and real.
Additionally, the film’s pacing is adept at maintaining suspense. The gradual buildup of tension keeps the audience engaged without overwhelming them. The strategic placement of revelations and plot twists ensures that viewers are constantly intrigued. This pacing allows for a deeper emotional connection to the characters, as the audience is given time to understand and empathize with their struggles.
The use of flashbacks and dream sequences also adds to the film’s pacing. These elements are interwoven seamlessly into the narrative, providing context and background without disrupting the flow of the story. The flashbacks to Vanessa’s life before Obe’s death and her initial reactions to his loss add depth to her character and make her journey more compelling.
The pacing also allows for moments of introspection and reflection. These quieter scenes are essential for developing the characters and their relationships. They provide a contrast to the more intense moments, creating a rhythm that enhances the overall storytelling. By balancing action with reflection, the film ensures that its themes are explored thoroughly and thoughtfully.
“Parallel” (2024) Black Movie Review: Acting Performances
The acting in “Parallel” is another standout aspect. Danielle Deadwyler delivers a compelling performance as Vanessa, capturing the raw emotion of a mother grieving the loss of her child. Her portrayal is both nuanced and powerful, conveying Vanessa’s pain, confusion, and eventual acceptance of her reality. Deadwyler’s ability to convey a wide range of emotions, often without words, is a testament to her talent. Her interactions with the other characters, especially Alex and Martel, are charged with intensity and authenticity.
Close-up shots of Deadwyler’s face, particularly her eyes, effectively convey the anguish and intensity of the moments. These shots draw the audience into Vanessa’s internal world, making her pain and confusion palpable. The subtle changes in her expressions, from despair to fleeting moments of hope, are captured beautifully, adding depth to her character.
Aldis Hodge, playing Alex, complements Deadwyler’s performance with a portrayal of a husband torn between his own grief and his desire to support his wife. Hodge brings a depth to Alex’s character, showing his internal struggle and the strain that Vanessa’s grief places on their relationship. “Parallel” (2024) Black Movie Review nods to his performance, particularly impactful in scenes where he expresses frustration and helplessness, highlighting the often-overlooked perspective of those supporting loved ones through mental health crises.
Hodge’s portrayal is enhanced by the use of close-ups and medium shots that focus on his expressions and body language. His ability to convey complex emotions through subtle gestures adds layers to his character, making Alex’s pain and determination to help Vanessa feel real and relatable.
Edwin Hodge, as Martel, provides a grounding presence, representing the voice of reason in the midst of chaos. His character serves as a mediator and a source of stability, yet he also has his own moments of vulnerability and insight. Edwin Hodge’s performance adds layers to the narrative, as Martel’s interactions with Vanessa and Alex reveal the complexities of their familial bonds and individual struggles.
The supporting cast, though not as prominently featured, also delivers strong performances. Each character adds to the film’s exploration of grief and mental health, contributing to the overall narrative without overshadowing the main plot. The collective effort of the cast ensures that the emotional weight of the story is felt throughout, making “Parallel” a deeply affecting film.
The chemistry between the actors is palpable, adding authenticity to their interactions. Deadwyler and Hodge, in particular, have a dynamic that captures the tension and love between Vanessa and Alex. Their scenes together are charged with emotion, ranging from tender moments of connection to heated arguments. This range makes their relationship believable and relatable.
“Parallel” (2024) Black Movie Review: Grief
Grief was the unseen supporting cast member on center stage. The portrayal of grief by the actors is both respectful and realistic. Grief is shown not as a monolithic experience but as a multifaceted journey that affects each character differently. Vanessa’s intense, often silent suffering contrasts with Alex’s more outward expressions of pain and frustration. Martel’s role as a supportive yet struggling family member adds another dimension to the depiction of grief.
Moreover, the actors’ performances are enhanced by the direction and script. The dialogue is natural and poignant, allowing the actors to bring their characters to life in a compelling way. The direction by Ahari ensures that each performance is given the space to breathe and develop, resulting in a film that is as emotionally resonant as it is intellectually stimulating.
“Parallel” (2024) Black Movie Review: Cinematography and Visual Effects
The cinematography of “Parallel” is a visual treat, enhancing the film’s exploration of parallel universes. The use of natural light and the forest setting creates a sense of both tranquility and eeriness, mirroring Vanessa’s internal state. The visual effects are seamlessly integrated, making the transitions between universes believable and immersive. The film’s use of mirrors and reflections further emphasizes the theme of alternate realities, adding a layer of visual symbolism to the narrative.
Cinematographer Armando Salas employs a palette of muted colors and natural lighting to create an atmosphere that is both haunting and beautiful. The forest scenes, in particular, are shot with a sense of reverence and mystery, highlighting the otherworldly nature of Vanessa’s journey. The camera work is fluid, with long takes and smooth transitions that draw the viewer into the story. The use of handheld cameras in certain scenes adds a sense of immediacy and intimacy, making Vanessa’s experiences feel personal and visceral.
Close-up shots, particularly of the characters’ eyes and faces, drive home the intensity of key scenes. The anguish and emotion captured in these shots convey the depth of the characters’ experiences, drawing the audience further into the story. These visual choices enhance the narrative, making the emotional moments more impactful.
The visual effects team deserves praise for their work in depicting the multiverse. The effects are subtle yet effective, avoiding the pitfalls of over-reliance on CGI. Instead, the film uses practical effects and creative camera techniques to differentiate between universes. This approach not only adds to the film’s realism but also ensures that the visual effects serve the story rather than overshadowing it.
The use of mirrors and reflections throughout the film is a brilliant visual metaphor for the theme of parallel realities. Vanessa’s encounters with her doppelgangers are framed in ways that emphasize their similarities and differences, creating a sense of unease and curiosity. These visual cues are not just aesthetically pleasing but also contribute to the narrative’s exploration of identity and self-perception.
The cinematography also plays a crucial role in building the film’s atmosphere. The use of natural elements, like the forest and its changing light, creates a dynamic backdrop that mirrors the characters’ emotional states. The transitions between light and dark, calm and chaos, reflect Vanessa’s internal journey, adding another layer of meaning to the visual storytelling.
The Production Quality
Next, in this “Parallel” (2024) Black Movie Review, we’ll look at the overall production quality of “Parallel,” which is exceptional. The film’s score, composed by a talented team, underscores the emotional weight of the story, heightening the tension and poignancy of key scenes. The sound design is equally impressive, using ambient sounds to create an immersive experience for the viewer. The film’s editing is sharp and precise, ensuring that the narrative flows smoothly without any unnecessary scenes or distractions.
The musical score by Nathaniel Walcott and Mike Mogis is a standout element, complementing the film’s tone and pacing perfectly. The music ranges from hauntingly minimalistic to richly orchestral, reflecting Vanessa’s emotional journey. Key scenes are underscored by music that enhances their impact, whether it’s the eerie calm of the forest or the intense moments of discovery and confrontation.
Sound designer Karen Vassar Triest’s work is instrumental in creating the film’s immersive atmosphere. The use of ambient sounds, such as the rustling of leaves and distant echoes, grounds the film in its natural setting while also adding to the sense of otherworldliness. The careful layering of sound effects ensures that each universe feels distinct yet connected, contributing to the overall sense of coherence in the narrative.
Editor Lance Pereira’s precise and deliberate editing ensures that the film maintains its momentum without sacrificing depth. The transitions between scenes and universes are handled with finesse, making the complex narrative easy to follow. The pacing is tight, with each scene contributing to the story’s progression and emotional impact.
The production design is also noteworthy, with detailed sets that enhance the film’s themes and atmosphere. The design of the forest, the characters’ home, and the mysterious facility all contribute to the film’s immersive quality. Each location is carefully crafted to reflect the emotional and narrative arcs, adding to the film’s overall coherence.
The use of practical effects, combined with high-quality visual and sound design, ensures that “Parallel” is not only visually stunning but also deeply engaging. The attention to detail in every aspect of production, from set design to soundscapes, contributes to a rich and immersive viewing experience.
The film’s overall production quality is a testament to the collaboration and dedication of the entire team. Each element, from the script and direction to the technical aspects of filmmaking, works together to create a cohesive and compelling narrative. This level of craftsmanship elevates “Parallel” beyond a typical sci-fi thriller, making it a profound and thought-provoking exploration of grief, identity, and reality.
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