Lifelines

Writer-director Rob Margolies' debut feature (originally titled Wherever You Are) bristles with smart dialogue, complex characters, and heart wrenching performances. Set against the backdrop of suburban utopia, the Bernstein family leads a dysfunctional existence. With three foul-mouthed kids (Robbie Sublett, Dreama Walker, and Jacob Kogan), a caffeine-addict mother (Jane Adams) on the brink, and a less than forthcoming father (Josh Pais), they suffer an atmosphere so heavy with collective hostility and tension it seems as if the floral-papered walls will come crashing down at any minute. Forced to the breaking point, they concede to a family therapy session, where it quickly becomes clear that what's at stake. Repressed anger and antagonism give way to moments of self-revelation, as a patient and compassionate Dr. Livingston (Joe Morton) draws out demons and secrets, allowing the family to start accepting each other. Brutally hilarious, warmly intimate, always honest, LIFELINES is an impressively fresh take on the family drama.

"LIFELINES is a fine, strong film." (Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times)

“A resoundingly affecting and emotionally cathartic family drama. Lingers and stirs in the memory long after the end credits have rolled.” (Dustin Putman, TheMovieBoy.com)