So many student films come across as simplistic. The characters are drawn so broadly, so quickly, that audiences lose interest, (even in a short film). How to pack complexity into a tight narrative structure? How about following the thorny and wondrous example set by Justin Lerner’s acclaimed film, The Replacement Child. The Windrider Forum is screening this lush, award-winning short as part of their summer series here.

The Replacement Child is such a glorious and invigorating blend of contradictions. It is a steamy Southern movie made in New England. It affirms the glory of gospel music, yet shows the destructive side of religious faith. It has echoes of tales from Flannery O’Connor or Tennessee Williams. Yet, it was created by Justin Lerner as his graduate thesis at UCLA. The Replacement Child is a fascinating, sepia-toned take on hard fought salvation.

Todd Turnbull has had a rough life. A short fuse landed him in juvenile hall for a year. Yet, returning to his stepfather’s house will test his efforts to restrain himself. To make matters even worse, his best friend is dying. And the parents refuse to seek medical help because of their Christian Science convictions. The Replacement Child mines the tension between blind faith and active intervention. Shall we take up arms to help those who cannot care for themselves? Todd Turnbull decides to become his brother’s keeper–regardless of the consequences.

I had the privilege of interviewing Justin Lerner at the Sundance Film Festival in January. You can hear our discussion at The Kindlings Muse.
Check out the vibrant colors, powerful performances, and rich soundtrack of The Replacement Child. And be on the look out for Justin Lerner’s feature film debut, Girlfriend, starring Jackson Rathbone (of Twlight fame). Congrats to Justin on this significant cinematic leap forward.