This is a film where finding a second chance and redemption do not come easy. Yet, there is inspiration and hope in this dramatic film which is perfect for the Chicago International Film Festival. Directed by Tim Blake Nelson, this is The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd. In this film, a prisoner is inspired by writing. After making many mistakes in life, he finds faith in an instructor who provides him with reasons to live. While the subject is spellbinding and dark, the lights shine bright in this mesmerizing story.
The film’s main character is Karen, played by Amanda Seyfried. She is an instructor for prison inmates and is also in an abusive relationship. She tries to overcome the difficult elements in her life by teaching. She encourages creative writing for her inmates/students. Wilson Shedd, a prisoner played by Scoot McNairy finds her inspiring. Although his past has wrecked his life, he continuously searches for the right poetic words to describe the bad choices he has made. He finds Karen’s teaching inspirational.
Karen has her own problems, but searches for what can make Wilson’s life better. It is not an easy situation, but the thought of escaping via creative pursuits is an important message in The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd. Karen finds herself trying to help Wilson see light again. Is she doing it within legal guidelines? Boundaries get crossed. Wilson wants happiness outside of prison, and Karen wants happiness outside her abusive relationship. Both are living challenging lives in different places. The uncharted moments in this film dazzle with hope. Four out of four stars for The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd.
