Watch Sparrow

Sparrow is a 2016 independent film directed by Welby Ings. Starring Matthew Arbuckle as a man named Jared, the film tells the story of his journey through grief and self-discovery. The film begins with a scene of Jared wandering aimlessly through the streets of Auckland, New Zealand. It quickly becomes apparent that he is struggling to come to terms with a recent loss, and his sorrow is palpable. Despite his apparent lack of purpose, Jared gets involved in a series of small-scale hustles and cons, which ultimately lead him to cross paths with a mysterious stranger named Ezra (Paul Glover). Ezra offers Jared an unusual job - stealing one of his own paintings from a wealthy collector's mansion. Despite his reservations, Jared agrees to the job, and soon finds himself embroiled in a high-stakes game of art theft and manipulation.

As Jared and Ezra develop a reluctant partnership, the film takes on a surreal and dreamlike quality. Jared's grief and confusion are echoed in the film's disjointed structure and unusual visuals. Flashbacks and hallucinations blur together, blurring the line between what is real and what is imagined. At the same time, Ezra's enigmatic personality and ruthless tactics create an atmosphere of tension and uncertainty.

One of the most striking elements of Sparrow is its distinctive visual style. Welby Ings has been praised for his innovative use of color, light, and shadow, which create a sense of unease and surrealism. The film's New Zealand setting is also used to great effect, with the city of Auckland and its contrasting landscapes forming a backdrop to Jared's journey. The film's score, composed by Don McGlashan, is equally memorable, blending instrumental pieces with eclectic sound effects and voices.

Despite its moody and introspective tone, Sparrow is also a film with a strong sense of humor and wit. Several scenes feature witty banter and clever dialogue, and the relationship between Jared and Ezra is marked by a playful sense of one-upmanship. This humor helps to balance out the film's darker and more intense moments, creating a well-rounded narrative.

Although the film's plot may seem relatively straightforward, Sparrow is a film that rewards careful attention and reflection. Themes of identity, loss, and redemption are woven into the fabric of the film, and the story often takes unexpected turns. By the end of the film, viewers may find themselves questioning their own perceptions of reality and truth.

Sparrow has received praise from critics and audiences alike, with many praising its innovative style and emotionally resonant story. The film was nominated for several awards at the New Zealand Film Awards, including Best Director and Best Screenplay, and won the award for Best Supporting Actor (for Tama Jarman's performance).

Overall, Sparrow is a compelling and thought-provoking film that defies easy categorization. Its moody atmosphere, distinctive visuals, and strong performances make it a standout independent film that is well worth a watch.