 "Photo: Courtesy Shelley Chawla")
Michigan residents are thinking about stem cell research more than usual, especially with the passing of Proposal 2 — Proposal 2008-02: A proposed constitutional amendment to permit, with certain limitations, stem cell research in Michigan was on the Nov. 4 ballot.
Director Rich Ambler’s “Hope,” which saw its North American debut in Michigan, is shamelessly in favor of stem cell research, but it also presents arguments which oppose that stance. “Hope” is a low-budget film, but that does not excuse its amateurish technique and hammy tone.
“Hope” tells three stories that interweave. The first is of Sen. Moreland’s (J. Robert Paisley) and his family’s struggles as he decides how to vote on proposed legislation concerning stem cell research.
The second involves Dr. Melinda Bryant (Laura Schaeffer) as she explores the possibility that stem cell research might provide an option that would cure her father’s alzheimers.
The final story involves Dr. Preet Walia (Ranjit Arab) who also explores the developments made in stem cell research, this time in India.
The complicated story is not hard to follow except for one comedic subplot involving a man who receives packages that he did not order.
In fact, “Hope’s” complicated plot is one of the least problematic of this year’s films. The real problems in “Hope” stem from Ambler’s technique. Very few scenes are set up in a memorable way.
After a character is paralyzed in a hospital following a car crash, several scenes go by without the camera’s placement changing in the room. The audience is left with a low-angle, medium-long shot, a setup which ruins all of those scenes. None of the actors’ performances could be seen clearly and appreciated.
None of the lighting is noteworthy, with the exception of an excellent dream sequence. For the most part, Ambler and cinematographer Shaun Cloud did not adequately set up the mood of the scene, but left that job solely to the actors.
The actors are a mixed bag. There are good performances from Moreland’s wife (Jan Chapman) and his son’s girlfriend (Miranda Moore), amateurish performances from Arab and Courtney’s friend Megan (Morgan McMichael) and average performances from Schaeffer and Paisley.
The one thing this film does a brilliant job of is its score. It should not win any awards, but it is noteworthy for using a combination of folk, Tex-Mex and experimental music.
It cannot be denied that “Hope” provides a public service. Many people do not know the benefits and dangers of stem cell research and this film addresses both.
Still, your time would best be spent by taking 30 minutes to learn about stem cell research instead of taking 100 minutes to see this film.
Grade: D
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