“Duke” will take you to your happy place

Inspirational and heartwarming, the short film “Duke” is beyond wonderful. I am sincerely thankful to the creators of this film because it gives hope to many parents all over the world struggling in the same situation to provide their child with the best possible normal life. Autism is a challenge not only for the child but for his parents and the people that surround him. It takes a lot of love, understanding, patience, respect and financial support to help get by every day with treatment and therapy. The power of this film to inspire parents, especially those who are losing a battle with themselves in this trying situation is simply strong enough to give them something to hold on to and keep going. Although, how far can a parent hold the hand of his child with special needs? Like what Brenda Peters mother of Duke said in the movie “I am not gonna be around to help him forever” are the exact words that crush the heart of every parent of a child with a disability of every day that passes by.

The drama will touch anyone who gets to watch this film, the way it did to me. Though I must admit that I got a little over emotional, it was a bit personal because I have a little Duke of my own. Every scene hit me like a rock on the chest. Though the family in the film was fictional, writer/director Thiago Dadalt and co-writer/producer Dru Miller were able to create characters that a family with an autistic child can relate. He had depicted a true to life family that can connect to the audience because of the emotional weight that every character carries. The beautiful and timely shots don’t only showcase real-life scenarios, it showed me the kindness of this film and its creators to show awareness and social acceptance and support for families under this kind of situation. Because at times, the public’s judgment and prying eyes add more weight to the difficulties.

Aside from the films captivating and wonderful story, it wouldn’t all be possible without the incredible portrayal of the character of Duke, played by Robert Solomon and Brenda Peters played by the lovely Piercey Dalton. It is a challenging role to characterize someone with autism. There are habits, attitudes, behavioral conditions, and emotional outburst that need thorough understanding and study to be connected and execute the character, and I am at awe in Robert’s performance. It was spot on, superb. On the other hand, I was at tears in most, if not all of Piercey Dalton’s scenes. As a mother, I felt the hardship of every day, keeping everyone together, hoping against hope, and fearing what the future might bring. She undoubtedly deserves acting awards and recognition for this role. I know both of these actors poured their heart out to deliver an exceptional film, and it was all worth it, for that they have my utmost honors.

“Duke” is a timely masterpiece in my book and by far, one of the best film I have reviewed this season. The overall quality and performance were flawless. The perfect family film to inspire hope, unify, and express love, as it says in its caption “what is essential is invisible to the eye” will leave a mark on many hearts as Duke did to mine.