Families are messy things in the best of times, and as Reeling shows in its world premiere at SXSW there is a way in which tragedy can jumble things up even more. First-time director Yana Alliata takes elements of her own experiences and fuses them into a story of pain, love, and an uncertain future.
In many ways, Reeling is two films in one. There’s a narratively shot feature that follows Ryan (Ryan Wuestewald) as he inculcates himself back into his family’s rhythms. He’s been through something horrible if the large scar across his scalp is any indication. His memory falters, and even close friends have to reintroduce themselves. Even as we realize the brain trauma he is recovering from, the sense of belonging that enfolds this familiar stranger is almost palpable.
At the same time, we’re also dipping in and out of what feels like a real party, a traditional Hawaiian luau, this one a birthday get-together. A pit is dug, a pig is roasted, stories are told. There are equal numbers of non-actors alongside the pros. Alliata seamlessly blends her friends and her crew to make for one big celebration.
The birthday girl is Ryan’s sister, Meg (Nikki DeParis). She pairs with older brother John (Hans Christopher) to create a trio of siblings with a lot of hard history. Something seems off about John from the beginning; he’s the only one who doesn’t seem to want Ryan around. Christopher plays this to a tee, all aloof, rugged handsomeness and big brother energy.
Alliata cited as an influence Krisha by Trey Edward Shults (a SXSW narrative competition film itself 10 years ago), both in style and substance for this prickly family drama. Even without knowing this, the comparisons are undeniable. It has its own “turkey scene” that revolves around a very awkward moment at a remembrance for a recently deceased relative. Viewers will be squirming in their seats.
Things do come to a head in Reeling with the two brothers forced to confront their past. This is wonderfully constructed through Ryan’s slow descent as the night wears on and nerves fray for the larger group. Haunting a capella music steps in here to provide the perfect accompaniment to Ryan’s awkward attempt to woo another partygoer to disastrous results.
Reeling will make audiences feel the good vibes of a proper O‘ahu luau while also delivering the weight of life-changing actions that can’t be undone. Alliata conveys the almost bottomless pit of regret but also lots and lots of love. Sometimes, that’s family.
Screens again Friday, March 14.
Reeling
Narrative Feature Competition, World Premiere
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This article appears in March 7 • 2025.