I have many memories of my Grandad as a child, mostly involving playing Scrabble on the weekends. Yet, I’ve never truly taken time out of my day to envision how life was for him at my age. I’ve heard many stories from my Mum and his eulogy covered the highlights, but he’s only ever been a Grandad to me. However, as It’s A Beautiful View shows, there’s great purpose in reflecting upon the past lives of our ancestors, finding that we may be more similar than we initially realised.
Directed by Anthony Aitman, I was introduced to the short film It’s A Beautiful View by one of the writers, Bradley Mell, who worked alongside Joe Facer. Following the death of his Grandfather George, Charlie fidgets nervously on a beach they used to visit – a location that remains a family secret. Looking forlorn, he reminisces on the times they spent together and what he had learnt about his Great Grandfather John. Neither Charlie or George had met John, with only a letter and George’s mum to tie them together, but it’s clear they face similar trials and tribulations presented by life.
What may sound like a dour subject becomes quite a warm and wonderful piece. Being placed into the shoes of three men from different generations offers an interesting way of discussing the same theme, in this case becoming a dad, but from different perspectives. Excited for a newborn to losing a father figure, It’s a Beautiful View encapsulates significant range in a short period of time successfully. The use of sentimental objects like a teddy bear and expressing similar mannerisms such as their tendency to ramble creates such a personal effect that I relate with the characters instantly. My only critique is how the story is told. Using voice-overs and reading letters does allow for us to go in-depth with our characters but also results in several shots just staring at them. The cinematography outside of this is beautiful, credit to Adam Sandy as well as the beach being an ideal location, I just feel we linger a little too long on Charlie’s pained expressions.
Nonetheless, It’s A Beautiful View delivers on the name as well as providing an uplifting story I’d be intrigued to see more of. The film also left me pondering about my relationship with the past. I may focus on the differences so much I forget the similarities between me and my ancestors, and it’s about time I find my place to reminisce as well.
It’s A Beautiful View can be found on Vimeo here: https://vimeo.com/672037749