“Little Brother” Wins Audience Award at Atlanta Film Festival
The drama film “Little Brother,” directed by Sheridan O’Donnell, has won the Audience Award at the Atlanta Film Festival. The film, which premiered in April 2023, tells the story of two brothers, played by Daniel Diemer and Philip Ettinger, who embark on a journey from Albuquerque to Seattle.
In the film, the younger brother, Jake, is tasked with bringing his older brother, Pete, back home to their family after several suicide attempts. The brothers set off in a broken-down pickup truck, stopping at various locations along their 1,400-mile journey, including Arches National Park and Perrine Coulee Falls.
“Little Brother” marks O’Donnell’s feature film debut, and he also wrote the screenplay. The film is inspired by personal experiences, including the suicide of a close friend and the attempted suicide of a family member who was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
Philip Ettinger, known for his role as a suicidal environmental activist in Paul Schrader’s “First Reformed,” portrays Pete in the film. Daniel Diemer, who starred in the male lead in the comedy film “Only Half the Story of Alice Wu,” plays Jake. Oscar winner JK Simmons portrays their father, Warren, and Polly Draper plays their mother, Gail. Natsuko Ohama also appears in another role.
The filming of “Little Brother” faced a unique challenge as O’Donnell was diagnosed with retinopathy pigmentosa, a
What themes does “Little Brother” explore and how does it approach these topics?
The captivating drama film “Little Brother” has captured the hearts of audiences and taken home the Audience Award at the highly regarded Atlanta Film Festival. Directed by the talented Sheridan O’Donnell, this cinematic masterpiece made its debut in April 2023 and has since captivated audiences with its poignant story.
The film follows the journey of two brothers, brilliantly portrayed by Daniel Diemer and Philip Ettinger, as they embark on a transformative road trip from Albuquerque to Seattle. The younger brother, Jake, is given the important task of bringing his older brother, Pete, back home to their family after enduring multiple suicide attempts. Together, they set off in a weathered pickup truck, encountering various locations and experiences along their 1,400-mile trek, including the stunning Arches National Park and breathtaking Perrine Coulee Falls.
“Little Brother” marks Sheridan O’Donnell’s directorial debut in a feature film, and he showcases his exceptional talent by also penning the screenplay. Drawing from personal experiences, including the tragic suicide of a close friend and the attempted suicide of a family member diagnosed with bipolar disorder, O’Donnell infuses the film with depth and authenticity.
Philip Ettinger, renowned for his standout performance as a suicidal environmental activist in Paul Schrader’s critically acclaimed “First Reformed,” gives a compelling portrayal of Pete in “Little Brother.” Daniel Diemer, who charmed audiences as the male lead in the hit comedy “Only Half the Story of Alice Wu,” delivers a stellar performance as Jake. The talented cast also includes Oscar winner JK Simmons as their father, Warren, and the talented Polly Draper as their mother, Gail. Natsuko Ohama also makes an appearance in another notable role.
During the filming of “Little Brother,” O’Donnell faced a unique challenge as he was diagnosed with retinopathy pigmentosa. Despite this, his determination and passion for his craft shone through, resulting in a film that not only resonates with audiences but also showcases his immense talent as a director.
“Little Brother” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that tackles important themes of mental health, family, and resilience. With its emotionally charged storyline and exceptional performances, it’s no wonder that it won the Audience Award at the esteemed Atlanta Film Festival. Audiences can expect to be captivated and moved by this remarkable piece of cinema that tackles complex issues with sensitivity and compassion.
This heartwarming journey of redemption and family bonding in “Little Brother” is a true testament to the power of love and forgiveness. It beautifully depicts the transformative journey of a sibling relationship, leaving readers feeling inspired and reminded of the importance of cherishing those closest to us.