FILM ANALYSIS BY - JOEL OKAI-NTOW (BFAMP28049)

FILM TITLE: Light My Fire
CAST: Miles, Roy, Kendra, Clark, Lucy
DIRECTOR: Bobb Barito

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At the beginning of the film, my curiosity was immediately piqued. I found myself wondering what exactly was troubling Miles as he stormed out of his house in frustration. His quick movements—walking straight into the garage, starting the car, and speeding off—made me assume he was going to confront the people setting off fireworks, or possibly dealing with a conflict at home, maybe with his wife. It was only later that I realized his intentions were entirely different, which came as a surprise and added a layer of intrigue to the storyline.

When it comes to the dynamics between Roy and his son Clark, I couldn’t help but feel there was a lack of proper parenting. Roy’s authoritarian approach at home—where his word is final—has created an environment that breeds violence and rebellion. This harsh form of discipline may have contributed to Clark’s aggressive behavior, which tragically extended beyond their household, eventually leading to the bullying of Lucy.

The film captured my attention from the outset. Miles’ emotional state and aggressive driving immediately raised questions in my mind. I was drawn in, eager to understand the reason behind his reckless urgency, especially when he nearly caused an accident. This level of suspense made the story more immersive and compelling. In a nutshell, the film explores themes of a protective father seeking justice for his daughter and a strict father taking firm action to correct his son’s misconduct. At its core, the narrative revolves around discipline, justice, and the consequences of our decisions.

There were several unexpected turns in the plot that caught me off guard. One of the most surprising moments occurred when Miles arrived at Roy’s house, presumably to confront Clark. Instead of reacting with anger, Roy surprisingly gave Miles the opportunity to punish Clark himself. This left Miles unsure and motionless. Even more shocking was Roy’s choice to take matters into his own hands and physically discipline his son, a moment that left both Miles and viewers stunned. It was intense and thought-provoking, questioning how far a parent should go in correcting a child.

The characters were crafted with depth and realism. Every actor seemed to fully embody their roles, delivering performances that were both convincing and emotionally impactful. The dog’s presence, though minor, added a layer of intensity and suspense that amplified the fear and tension in several scenes. Each character served a purpose, and none felt out of place. Miles convincingly portrayed a father on a mission, while Roy embodied a hard, commanding presence. The dog’s behavior elevated the drama, showing how even supporting elements can strengthen a scene.

The relationships between characters were equally compelling. Roy and Clark’s interaction reflected a distant and strained father-son bond. For instance, when Roy summoned Clark, and he replied with “yes sir,” it emphasized the rigid, hierarchical nature of their relationship. Another key moment was when Roy’s wife tried to intervene during the punishment, only to be silenced with the statement that she had no right to instruct him on parenting. This reinforced Roy’s dominant role in the household and shed light on the emotional distance that likely led Clark to act out.

The film’s visual storytelling enhanced its message beautifully. The American flag shown early on, the ice chest, the pool ball, and the fireworks all helped to situate the film in a specific cultural and celebratory context—likely Independence Day. These props weren’t just decorative; they added layers of meaning. The use of close-up shots was especially powerful, conveying intense emotional states—like when Miles was in his car, angry and overwhelmed. During confrontational scenes, the tight framing forced the audience to focus on facial expressions, increasing the emotional gravity.

The use of color, lighting, and framing added deeper emotional cues throughout the film. For example, Miles wore red—signifying both anger and a passionate resolve—while Roy’s blue attire suggested calmness or perhaps sorrow. Lighting choices, like the orange-toned dimness during scenes with Miles, helped portray his internal confusion and moral conflict. The overhead shot of Miles asleep on the couch emphasized his emotional vulnerability, making him appear small and powerless after such a charged confrontation.

Sound and music played a significant role in shaping the film’s mood. The crackling fireworks reinforced the celebratory setting while also contrasting with the film’s darker emotional undercurrents. The screech of Miles' car tires highlighted his urgency and emotional distress. The dog’s barking introduced anxiety and a sense of danger, while the sounds during Roy’s punishment of Clark made the moment deeply emotional and uncomfortable. Dialogue was crisp and well-captured, making every line feel intentional. The absence of unnecessary background noise allowed viewers to stay emotionally engaged in each scene.

Despite its strengths, the film didn’t entirely match my initial expectations. I originally thought Miles was going to confront those setting off fireworks, but his real destination and intent was much heavier. His fast departure and emotional state created suspense, but it led to a mission of revenge that unfolded differently than I anticipated. One of the film’s strongest aspects was when Miles reconsidered his actions afterward, sitting silently in his car, visibly regretful. Turning off the music added to the gravity of that moment. The scene between him and his daughter afterward hinted at her disappointment, suggesting that she may not have approved of his reaction either.

In conclusion, the film delivered a strong emotional impact with powerful themes and character development, even if it strayed from my initial expectations. It leaves viewers questioning the right way to respond to personal injustice and what defines a good parent. I would recommend it to others not just for its dramatic value, but for the important life lessons it presents about control, discipline, and decision-making. Sometimes what feels right in the moment can have unexpected consequences, and this film portrays that truth with unforgettable clarity.

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