Writer/Director Isabel Hagen is a “coat” of many colours; more about that later. On a String, only her fourth credit, is a stand out hit. The writing is spot on. The casting is perfect and the lead; Isabel herself, sells the story. She seemingly does this with minimal effort.
*She immediately makes me think of another personal favourite, Alyson Hannigan. Not nearly so much in looks, although she does resemble the Buffy alum a bit, but in delivery. Her nuances speak volumes.*
The young performer has it all. Musician, actor add the two aforementioned titles, as well as Producer and she’s a winning package. This film alone can be seen as a great breakout feature. Everytime we watch it, we fall in love again. On a String is an award winning film and a clear hit. [3 wins and 2 nominations.]
The On a String Story
Isabel is a member of a string quartet. She plays the viola. *For those not in the know, her instrument of choice is larger than its sibling, the violin.* The film follows her interactions with clients, family and romantic interests. This is a coming of age story, of sorts. It has a slightly different look than most and the film works beautifully.
On a String Main Cast
Isabel Hagen is Isabel.
Dylan Baker is Jack, Isabel’s dad.
Ling Ling Huang is Christina.
Frederick Weller is Carl.
Jamie Lee is Tricia.
Eric Bogosian is Director.
John Kroner is Dave.
*Side note. It was delightful to see Dylan Baker as Isabel’s dad. Baker is a Mike’s Film Talk favourite. I can also say that Jamie Lee. is perfect here. *
Kudos to the entire cast for aiming for the fences right along with Hagen. They, as well as the story and characters, make this one fun to watch.
On a String Works
This is, for all intents and purposes, an autobiographical film, Hagen confirms it in her Director’s Statement. Everything comes together brilliantly. DP Zac Nicholson makes each frame fit the moment. Up close and intimate, as in the one very tame sex scene, or combining several elements to shape a scene.
Editor Olivia Vessel works in tandem with both Hagen and Nicholson to seamlessly blend each showpiece. The score, by Composer Will Canzoneri is so pleasing that one could become a Brahm’s fan by default.
Isabel is a talented Violist. She has fallen into, what feels like, a “time loop” existence. As the musician suffers a crisis of the existential variety, she loses what she loves the most; herself.
On a String has many beats and similar to another old favourite, On Golden Pond, uses a low key approach. Hagen delivers faultlessly; an impressive feat as first time director. Add to this her obvious skill as an actress, this make watching this one a “no brainer.”
The Verdict
On a String hammers for the fences here with a homerun. 5 out of 5 stars out of the gate. It really is no wonder that the film took home 3 wins and 2 nominations on the festival circuit. This love letter to musicians and Brahms drops on September 11. Keep an eye out for this one and catch it. Thank me later.
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