Watch Tarnished Notes

Tarnished Notes is a 2016 drama film directed by Mitchell Altieri, written by Kevin Artigue, and starring Cari Moskow, Elijah Chester, and Tara Alexandra Brown. Set in the backdrop of Louisiana in the 1950s, the film is a story of family, race, and music. The film begins with the struggling musician, Lucas, returning to his hometown of New Orleans after several years of traveling. Living with his Aunt Antoinette, he tries to rekindle his relationship with his estranged mother, Vivien, who is suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Lucas’s reunion with his family, however, is not without obstacles, as he must face the racial tensions that persist in the South.

Lucas is not the only one trying to make amends. He is also approached by Charlotte, a former lover and bandmate. Together they pick up their instruments once again and try to rediscover the magic they once shared. The two are eventually joined by a young and talented African American pianist, Ash, who brings a new sound to the group.

As the group rehearses and prepares for a big competition, they not only must deal with their own personal struggles but also the societal inequalities in the South. The film beautifully portrays how deeply rooted discrimination is, with the black community being barred from entering whites-only establishments, including music venues.

The film also explores the complexities of family relations, where the past mistakes of parents are often carried by their children. Vivien’s illness brings to light the long-standing tensions between her and her sister Antoinette. The film also shows the love and support that family can provide, with Lucas and Charlotte attempting to help Vivien in every way possible.

The film's portrayal of music as a powerful tool to break down racial barriers is incredibly moving. It is through the music that relationships are forged and the characters come together, showcasing the importance of shared experiences in overcoming prejudice. The characters also use music to deal with their emotions, with Lucas turning to his guitar in times of sadness, and Ash playing the piano to express his anger.

The acting in Tarnished Notes is exceptional, with each actor delivering a touching and layered performance. Cari Moskow, who plays Vivien, is particularly impressive, capturing the confusion and sadness of someone dealing with Alzheimer's. Elijah Chester, who plays Lucas, also has a commanding presence on screen, portraying the inner turmoil of his character with ease. Tara Alexandra Brown, who plays Charlotte, is equally captivating, bringing a vulnerability to her role that is both endearing and relatable.

The film also benefits from its stunning cinematography and moody score, which perfectly capture the Southern Gothic setting of the film. The use of natural light and dark shadows adds to the film's mystery, while the bluesy background score perfectly complements the film's musical themes.

In conclusion, Tarnished Notes is a wonderfully heartfelt and moving drama that deals with complex issues in a sensitive and nuanced way. With its exceptional cast and atmospheric setting, the film is a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring the human experience. The film's message of the unifying power of music is particularly resonant, reflecting the importance of coming together in the face of adversity.

Tarnished Notes is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.