Directed by David Fortune, this is a realistic journey about impactful changes that lead to fulfillment. The film’s cinematography is black and white and presents a story that is mind-boggling and mentally enticing. It is also emotional weaving in high and low moments. What hit me close to home in Color Book was the relationship between a father and his son who has Downs Syndrome. The story explores how parenting requires patience and unconditional love despite challenges. In this story, the challenges are greater because the father is raising his son alone.

Color Book’s screenplay is heartfelt and one-of-a-kind. The setting is Atlanta, Georgia. The father is Lucky (played by Wiliam Catlett), and his son is Mason (played by Jeremiah Alexander Daniels). Mason struggles with sensory overload. After the passing of his Mason’s mother, Lucky must help Mason find coping skills and raise him to have a fulfilling life. Mason has a fascination with having a balloon by his side which is the personification of calm. Mason also enjoys coloring which is linked to the film’s title. Lucky strives to make Mason happy, but it is mentally difficult for both father and son. 

The film’s mission is to find the connection between Lucky and Mason. Lucky promises to take Mason on a trip to a baseball game. This adventure has hurdles along the way as they encounter blockades of frustration. Deep down, however, there is love extending from Lucky to his son, Mason. At certain moments in the film, it may not be presented as love, but the new challenges serve as meaningful signs to the film’s audience. Color Book is a breathtaking portrait of acceptance and encouragement which are essential to the bond between Lucky and Mason.

Color Book felt soothing to me as Lucky and Mason learned to adapt. While there are struggles, happiness abounds. Despite the differences between father and son, Color Book highlights the beauty of acceptance as a form of love. Color Book creates a pattern of how a heart can love unconditionally. 

Seeing this masterpiece at Ebertfest reminded me how movies can spark emotions. I felt many different feelings during the turmoil throughout the film. I also felt the engagement of the audience around me. Color Book filled me with empathy due to the high-quality cinematic narrative. The film is not only deep, but visually stunning. Color Book reminds its audience to think about how others may see the world. People like Mason or his father Lucky who view the world from their own unique perspectives. The story also demonstrates how different behaviors lead to different outcomes. For example, Mason frequently has conflicts based on his sensory complications, and Lucky struggles to adapt. Deep down, human values so beautifully woven into the film’s story kept me intrigued. I thought about all the love that was present, but also what new elements both individuals had to adapt to while tolerating each other. This movie is an unforgettable portrait of love and parenting that is filled with artistic value. Three-and-a-half out of four stars for Color Book.