Schism (II) (2008) User Reviews

Schism is a display of independent film making brilliance.

[jeff-2324 · 10/10 · 24 October 2008]

Schism is a display of independent film making brilliance.

John Lyons has proved that a moving story beats a big budget in the "Rock, Paper, Scissors" game of film making. In this story of end of life reflection, Mr. Lyons has captured to most intricate nuances of the fragile mind in a graphical depiction that leaves the audience on the edge of their seat.

With the help of seasoned local actors, he dives into his broad wealth of photographic magic to pull out a winner. Cinematography, audio clarity, and creative imagery are helpful, but the synthesis of reality and the dark recesses of the aging mind add an unexpected but very appreciative twist.

Congratulations John, on a moving masterpiece.

a quiet powerhouse

[documentia-2 · 8/10 · 23 November 2008]

Due to the patience of director John Lyons, a clinically menacing atmosphere, and the commanding performance of Terrence Smith, this quiet little film holds more emotional power than most released in any given year.

'Schism' ignores the convention of the "issue" film and deals with mental distress, old age, ignorance, alienation and any other given number of textbook human afflictions with care and subtlety. A quality rare in the overly talky and self-purported "quirky" world of independent cinema.

More importantly, this film could be a gateway to open discussion on topics suppressed in the dialogue of the elderly, the ill and their families.

Be patient. It's worth it.

Highly recommend this film; it's a story that stays with you days after viewing

[d-zieg · 8/10 · 19 November 2008]

This film takes a real life perspectives upon the aging process. The main character Neil, after breaking his hip, ends up in a nursing home. Throughout the film Neil struggles with this new life, and this new reality of needing constant assistance. Neil's children quickly become distant, this aspect of relationship the director does not shy away from, and it adds greatly to the depth of the film. Also explored is the aspect of forming new, endearing relationships in the nursing home, and the wrenching heartbreaks that go along with the aging process. Highly recommend this film; it's a story that stays with you days after viewing.