Ben Grady (Grant Rosenmeyer) is a successful children’s book writer grappling with the devastating loss of his wife and collaborator, Sarah (Reina Hardesty). Ben’s isolation deepens as his sister Gloria (Lucy DeVito) and her husband Tom (Nican Robinson) offer little empathy, their interactions with him veering toward antagonism. Struggling with depression and self-doubt, Ben stumbles across a bizarre YouTube video showing a man seemingly flying off a cliff. Intrigued, he ventures onto the dark web and discovers a self-help book that promises to teach him how to fly.
This strange journey brings him to Mealworm (Paul Raci), an eccentric guru who claims to have unlocked the secret art of human flight. Raci’s layered, otherworldly performance is a highlight of the film, giving Mealworm a surreal yet heartfelt presence reminiscent of characters in Jared Hess’ films. The evolving dynamic between Ben and Mealworm adds emotional depth and a touch of whimsy to the narrative; however, toward the end, the film tries to take things in a darker direction that does not work cohesively with the rest of the film.
The cinematography is impressive for an indie production, skillfully capturing the film’s absurdity and poignancy. However, some of the side characters, particularly Gloria and Tom, come across as overly cartoonish in their treatment of Ben, making their motives and emotions inconsistent. In contrast, Maggie Grace’s portrayal of Wendy, Sarah’s close friend, offers a sweet, platonic connection that provides a grounding element amid the film’s eccentricity.
While uneven at times, The Secret Art of Human Flight delivers a delightful mix of humor, heart, and darkness. It’s an excellent pick for fans of quirky comedies and heartfelt explorations of grief and personal growth. For library customers or collectors seeking unique additions to their film collection, this offbeat gem is worth a look.
How can The Secret Art of Human Flight be integrated into public libraries’ collection development?
The Secret Art of Human Flight would be a fantastic addition to public libraries, especially for those looking to diversify their film collections with quirky, independent films that explore themes of grief, personal growth, and human connection. The film’s unique blend of humor, surrealism, and emotional depth makes it an appealing choice for patrons interested in indie cinema, character-driven narratives, or films about overcoming personal struggles. Public libraries could also feature this film in collections related to mental health, as it deals with Ben’s depression and journey toward healing. Given its appeal to fans of eccentric comedies and heartfelt storytelling, it would be a great option for library customers looking for something offbeat yet emotionally resonant.