Home Free is the feature-length directorial debut from trailblazing indie producer Avi Federgreen (Moon Point, Lifechanger, Things I Do For Money).  The movie is a routine family drama that, frankly, comes as a surprise considering this is the type of movie formula that Federgreen must be hip to.  However, maybe he’s wearing that producer cap of his and channeling what audiences want.

Certainly, there’s an audience for Home Free.  With premium cable outlet Hollywood Suite being one of the film’s attached studios, I have no doubt at-home movie goers will eventually find this playing on TV, during a rainy Sunday afternoon, and feel really moved by it.

I’m distracted by the fate of Home Free because it’s more intriguing than the film itself. As a bottled drama about three estranged sisters (Michelle Nolden, Natalie Brown, Tara Spencer-Nairn) reunited by their ailing father (Art Hindle of The Joke Thief and Robbery), Federgreen’s film is efficient enough;  featuring strong performances, some affective conversations, and a devastating ending.  But, live theatre may have been a better platform for Home Free.  The staging would’ve looked more natural, the connection with the audience would’ve felt more personal, and the delivery would’ve avoided melodrama when the emotions run high.

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