This is one of those rare and distinct documentaries that captures struggle and frustration.  This film displays the art of tolerance while dealing with a crisis and dives into the depths with a blissful meaning and purpose. Flying Lessons is an audacious and gorgeous work-of-art about finding bonding moments in life. Directed by Elizabeth Nichols, Flying Lessons had me questioning how the film found its positive voice. How does it remain optimistic given the issues  beneath the surface that are so difficult to cope with?

Flying Lessons focuses on Philly Abe, a punk artist. The director examines Philly’s life from what she tells her. Philly lives in an apartment on the Lower East Side of New York City and is dealing with an abusive landlord related to issues of fairness and rent. Philly has ways of coping with the stress through music, art, and culture. The film links to a lot of artists in the 80s as Philly talks about her struggles growing up. The story is an experiential ride that throbs with heartache and pain.

Philly is an inspiring force in this surreal story of exploration. She thrives on telling her story, and explaining what she does with her artistic value to stay afloat. The director is skillful atputting herself in Philly’s environment by spending time in her home and listening to the many stories she shares. Flying Lessons showcases the reality of class facing a real problem. It is charismatic in its poetic writing which portrays the evolving patterns of art.

The perspective of a home-life in turmoil based on inevitabledetrimental causes is compelling. The director of Flying Lessonsencourages the audience to use their voice to build resilience and fortitude.  Philly’s daily routine and the development of an amazing artistic path make Flying Lessons intriguing. The mental approaches used by Nichols come from poignant angles which result in light in each word she hears from Philly. Three-and-a-half out of four stars.

Flying Lessons is destined to be part of the 31st Chicago Underground Film Festival. The festival runs from Wednesday,September 11th to Sunday, September 15th. Flying Lessons will play at the Harper Theater on Thursday, September 12th at 9:30pm and Saturday, September 14th at 12:00pm. Go to https://cuff.org/ for listings, tickets and passes.