Like a House on Fire is a film about a woman trying to reconnect with her family. Dara (Sarah Sutherland) has returned to her husband and daughter after leaving them two years earlier. She finds her husband Danny (Jared Abrahamson) now lives with his girlfriend who is seven months pregnant. Making things even more difficult is that her own daughter does not remember her.
Everything hinges on Sutherland’s performance. This is mainly since Like a House on Fire decides not to give too many explanations. It is never explained why Dara left or what she did before returning. The story is more concerned with the present than the past.
Thankfully, Sutherland is excellent in the role. Dara is a vulnerable character whose arc is interesting to watch. The audience can tell what kind of person she is and what she wants. Sutherland makes up for what the script is lacking.
Like a House on Fire is also a story about making choices and accepting change. This is not just seen through Dara, but with Danny. After Dara left, he had to make a decision to move on with his life. Now that she has returned, there are more adjustments to be made.
The film relies heavily on heart wrenching moments. Considering the topic, this makes some sense. Still, Like a House on Fire lacks the emotional punch it should have at times. This is due to the movie not being as fleshed out as it could be.
Like a House on Fire is an appropriately moving film. Sarah Sutherland is magnificent in the lead role and is the highlight. The story is filled with tender moments; it just lacks the nuance to make it noteworthy.
Like a House on Fire comes to digital platforms March 30
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