IF 🤩

I am still crying tears of joy, love, and pride after watching the magical, whimsical movie IF. I feel joy and love because it is visually stunning, creative, poignant, and heartfelt. The pride comes from seeing my former student’s name highlighted on the screen as Executive Producer and Unit Production Manager. John J. Kelly…wow…just wow. 

John Krasinski wrote, directed, and portrayed Bea’s Dad. I cannot say enough about the tale he wove around children’s imaginary friends. The brilliant simplicity of his storytelling came through again and again. It was as IF we were invited to sit and listen to beloved characters, we all once knew. Krasinski took audiences full circle from the trusting, open heart of a child to the cynical non-believing adult we all unfortunately become. Oh, but it was the twists and turns that made the journey memorable and life-changing. The film was healing, uplifting, and profound about loss as well. Humor gave quick slivers to release and relieve our emotions. It was simply an extraordinary experience. 

The cast was phenomenal starting with Cailey Fleming as Bea. Her facial expressions and looks of despair and confusion held us all in the palm of her hand. She was at the core of this memory, and she was in total control of her acting skills as IF she had been doing this for decades. “I am 12. I am a kid.” Ryan Reynolds was amazing. He projected the warmth, understanding, and patience necessary. He was sheer perfection. Kudos to Steve Carell, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Fiona Shaw, and Louis Gossett Jr. They encircled Bea with the love, support, and humor to return to who she was meant to be. It was thrilling to watch. 

Audiences won’t believe the amount and calibers of stars who lent their fabulous voices to this story. Be sure to stay for the credits and see how many you guessed correctly. It is a stellar list to be sure. 

IF is a film that will be remembered and revisited for years to come. It will inspire writers to share the art of storytelling just by closing their eyes and imagining moments from long ago. When I do that, I see a young man destined to work and create films filled with passion. I can hear his multitude of questions as I glued on his beard and sideburns before the theatre curtain rises. I can witness his growth and yearning to be who he was meant to be. John J. Kelly…look how far you’ve come.

 IF is wondrous and is now playing in theaters everywhere.