The Circle Game

Andrea(Renessa Blitz)is being raised her grandmother Anna(Janet Laine- Green) but believes Anna is her real mother. Ergo, Monika(Marnie McPhil),who Andrea thinks is her older sister, is really her mother. This situation seems to be becoming more common recently so the storyline alone should appeal to many viewers. The movie does have many things to recommend it. The movie starts off showing Anna as an irresponsible parent and Monika as a maturing woman ready to take over her rightful role of Andrea's mother. However, things are not so easily resolved. The ending of the film is believable and very satisfying. The script and acting(featuring great performances by veteran Canadian actors like Jayne Eastwood, Tom McCamus and Albert Schultz) are equally strong.Another plus is the soundtrack featuring pleasant blues arrangements by Gordie Johnson. One major flaw is the film's editting. Some camera shots and transitions are so poorly done that it detracts from the film's potential. It would be nice to re-view this movie after a more competent editing. As it stands, this movie serves as a reminder to film makers not to neglect the technical side of movie making.