ABOUT THE FILM
FILM'S SYNOPSIS
Lily is a newly single mother as she grapples with the sudden loss of her husband Ron while caring for their nine-year-old autistic son, Kevin, and forming a bond with their new alcoholic neighbor, Marty Baker, a painter with a passion for music who works hard to create a future for his 13-year-old daughter, Chloe.
DIRECTOR'S STATEMENT
FROM EMBERS is a smart title, signifying both the themes of personal struggle and triumph over adversity that it explores via Lily’s and Marty’s character journeys and the literal search for evidence destroyed in a fire. The subplot related to burn victims is an unusual one that adds a memorable element to the story. The depiction of Kevin, Lily’s nine-year-old kid, is believable and perhaps the script’s strongest element. He acts as an innocent truth-teller, and his character isn’t overly archetypal - both concerning his experience of being neuro-atypical and how this affects Lily. In the climactic sequence, his revelation to Angela that he remembers that telephone conversation helps ramp up the tension. The dialog is mostly fairly natural aside from when it occurs in scenes with character/ plot issues and the socio-economic elements of the setting in expensive SoCal feel believable.
ABOUT THE FILM'S PROSPECTS
The project has the potential as a female-driven and emotional mystery with some romantic elements. It feels like a low-medium budget project with a future appeal to TV movie audiences on channels such as Lifetime and perhaps Netflix. We would be finding ways to layer the scenes, deliver more believable relationships, and tell a more polished cinematic story that could improve the screenplay’s chances of conquering the competitive spec film market.
“From Embers has been a labor of love and a journey into the depths of human emotion and resilience,” writer-director Bohan told Deadline. “Our talented cast, including the incredible Matthew Morrison and the dynamic Kara Wang, have poured their hearts into this project, bringing to life a story that explores the complexities of grief, secrets, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.”
Character Breakdown
A strong, resilient and caring woman who’s tasked to take care of her autistic son Kevin alone after a tragic accident kills her husband. Despite the hardships, she shows a lot of compassion to those less fortunate as well as conviction in seeking justice for the parties responsible for her husband's death. She’s also optimistic for a new life, demonstrating wit and openness, although those that cross her path must be prepared to put up a real fight.
About Lily
Ruggedly handsome, manly, and rough around the corners, Marty means well even if he’s not the best at communicating. His passion for music is only surpassed by his love for his daughter Chloe, whom he struggles to see after his divorce. Similar to Lily, he’s also looking for a way to move forward while bringing his child with him, although his slightly impulsive nature sometimes gets the better of him.
About Marty
Curious and understanding, Kevin unconditionally loves his mother and tries to make the best of their circumstances. His Aspergers makes it challenging for him to make friends and fit in; with his closest friend being his late father whom he shared his interest in space with. A near perfect memory and a dash of naivety, Kevin remains a central beacon of hope for Lily and is understanding and supportive when possible.
About Kevin
Smart, reasonable and Marty’s daughter and also his voice of reason, Chloe demonstrates maturity that far exceeds her age (perhaps due to the divorce her parents went through). She’s understanding of Marty’s position, and instead of holding resentment, tries to learn more about him and connect with him.
About Chloe
The financial manager at an insurance office, Angela is always seen well dressed and elegant with a warm smile. She’s financially able to look after Lily and Kevin during their time of distress and does so with her own volition. However, behind her inconspicuous nature lies something much darker. What seems like acts of kindness and goodwill turn out to be much more selfish as the story unfolds.
About Angela
A very smart and thoughtful scientist that Lily goes to for information. Posh and reserved on the outside, Dr. Morgan is a lot more sinister than meets the eye. His wealth gives him the capacity to corrupt and steal in order to get what he wants no matter the cost.
About Dr. Morgan
Very mean and stubborn motel manager where Lily works.
About Corey
Slightly absent minded agent at an insurance company that helps Lily on her quest to recover her insurance money from the lab accident involving her late husband, Ron.
About Mr. Kale