By: debbie lynn elias
A light and lilting narrative at the 2012 Los Angeles Film Festival that just steals my heart is CRAZY & THIEF, an instant charmer that will make you heart smile and have you grinning from ear to ear. Director Cory McAbee calls on his own 7 year old daughter, Willa, and 2 year old son, John, to fill us all with the wonder, magic and imagination of childhood as Crazy and Thief embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Armed with a “star chart” created by Crazy, the two set a course for their ultimate goal, find the Star of Bethlehem; a goal which is determined through their adventures during the day.
With the majority of the film lensed from the eye level and POV of Crazy and/or Thief (i.e., kidlet height), we are swept into their magical world with such wide-eyed wonder that itfs as if you, yourself, are along on the journey. Lighting is soft and natural keeping the tone of the film equally light, at times even giving the illusion of starlight dancing on their heads. Beautiful cinematic effect.
Adorable as adorable can be, as Crazy and Thief, Willa and Johnny McAbee, are beyond cuteness, particularly Johnny, whose exuberance just overflows from the screen and into your heart. Itfs this natural innocence that also makes for some of the best comedic moments a la Charlie Chaplin.
But it is the dreamy, childlike state in which you will find yourself drifting while watching this film that seals the deal and which makes this a Must See Festival Film in the Narrative Competition.
Crazy – Willa McAbee
Thief – Johnny McAbee
Written and Directed by Cory McAbee
