Of course, such raw, personal feelings can only come across if the cast is delivering properly. Here, everyone does a brilliant turn. Easton proves as incredible an actress as she is a writer. Beth’s frustrations at feeling like her life never actually began make perfect sense, and she never comes across as entitled or selfish. The scenes where the character tries to record a message to her parents, confronting them about the abuse she suffered growing up, allow Easton to showcase her impressive range beautifully. The actor effortlessly goes from comedy to drama to romantic to shock/awe. It’s a stunning performance in every way.
Matching Easton on every level is Goes as Eddie. At the outset of Borrelia Borealis, audiences are unsure whether they should trust Eddie, as Beth does not know either. However, thanks to the actor’s natural charisma and sweet demeanor, any potential doubts about his motivations are quickly put to rest. When he gets overly excited and asks Beth about the first time he astral projects to her, it feels natural. The two leads share jaw-dropping chemistry, and that is without them never occupying the same space. Reaves as the well-meaning doctor and Herholdt as the best friend don’t get as much to do, though they both deliver in their respective roles as well.
“…several scenes left me on the verge of crying.”
By this point in the review, this next point should not come across as a surprise at all: Kathryne Isabelle Easton directs the film with style, energy, and utter confidence. The astral projection moments are visualized through simple lights and creative effects. It works wonders, as these scenes are beautiful and offer a pleasing contrast to the rest of the film. Editor/DP Matt Fore (Easton’s husband) perfectly moves from one scene to another, balancing out the drama, comedy, and romance in equal, graceful measure.
Borrelia Borealis is about as perfect a film as one can ever possibly hope for. The acting is beyond great, the screenplay brilliant, and the direction sublime. Easton weaves a sublime heartwrenching and uplifting story in a mesmerizing fashion that will leave viewers in tears.
"…about as perfect a film as one can ever possibly hope for."
