Mikes Film Talk

Writer/actor Timothy J Cox gives us the 2026 drama Let Dan Go. The film looks at the residual effects of loss and grief. Taking place in a park, we learn how the death of a loved one can touch people differently. Although we find out that differences often have a sad commonality.

Let Dan Go Story

Harry’s son dies. Years later, the grieving dad meets with his late son’s wife. They talk, revealing deep rooted issues and how these have changed their lives.

The Cast (In Order of Appearance)

Daniel Griesheimer is Dan.

Ashlee Lawhorn is Abby.

Timothy J Cox is Harry.

Let’s Talk Let Dan Go

First time director Arielle Carroll takes us into the world of two people who are keeping Dan alive. They meet in a park. We see, nay; feel, the ripple effect that the son’s/husband’s death caused. It allows these two the ability to still connect.

The impression we get is that this may well be the last time they meet. Perhaps this time, they can let Dan go. There is still a lingering doubt though. We do not know what Harry’s “other plans” are to be. To me, at any rate, those plans do not bode well for Harry.

Cinematographer Jon Carroll varies the angles and mixes the shots perfectly. Tight 1-2 shots with a variation of pans and inclusive out of focus on the background. Sound Mixer William Stanley takes us right into that park. The muted, half heard dialogue of the other people in the park feels just right.

The casting is spot on. Dan looks like he really could be Harry’s son. Abby, AKA; Ashlee Lawhorn is a perfect fit in the equation. Her reactions at the start are honest and touch us deeply.

It Works

Timothy J Cox as an actor never fails to impress. He has written 10, one upcoming, scripts for films. As a scribe, Timothy proves that nothing is out of his reach. This last film grabbed me immediately and held my interest right up until the final credits rolled.

*If ever he feels the need to stop “treading the boards” his writing could step right up and take over. (No pun intended.)*

The actors all deliver here. It is not just about the truth that each bring to their roles, it is also about the writing. Griesheimer as Dan manages to show us how different he is while drunk.

Lawhorn, as Abby, swings for the fences and convinces us from the beginning that she loves her husband and is traumatised by his death. Cox does what he does best. His eyes show depths that his character tries to hide.

Watching the entire 17 minute film, we wonder. What if Dan had not died? Would the marriage have collapsed? Would Harry and Abby still have to let him go?

The Verdict

Alysm with their film Let Dan Go earns a solid 5 out of 5 stars. Everything fits together like a finely crafted instrument. The drama is now in its festival run. As soon as the film becomes available for viewing, we will let you know.