MOON MANOR -- The Beautiful Story of Death

By Paris Jade

With his Alzheimer's getting worse, Jimmy decides that he wants to die on his own terms. He ends up throwing a FUNeral for himself, inviting everyone he's ever known, showing that the art of living is actually the art of dying. This comedy was absolutely entertaining and inspiring. Moon Manor is a beautiful film from start to finish, telling the life story of actor James Carrozo. 
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As Jimmy prepares for his funeral, he invites a writer to sit and talk about his life in hopes that the story will keep him immortal. The audience basically goes on the same journey that the writer is going on. Throughout the film, you grow attached to the main character as he sits and tells you his life story. You can't help but feel like your own grandfather is telling you stories of his youth. Even as you go on and get attached, the film reminds you that this man will die at the end of the film, which is incredibly sad, and yet, you can't wait for him to get there because it's what he wants. He has planned this last day perfectly for himself, and everyone in his life is there to help keep it perfect. As for the supporting cast, you do not get attached to them as you do to Jimmy; however, you do feel for them, especially in Jimmy's final moments. With such an abnormal funeral, you know these characters are trying their best to hold it in. They do it well and celebrate with Jimmy.

The cinematography and transitions were absolutely perfect throughout the entire film. You just can't help but admire how the story is being told — it is absolute art. Certain moments in the movie feel a bit strange and abrupt, specifically when Jimmy spirals and thinks about his death; however, when he reels back in, you understand why it happened. By the end of the film, you have learned who Jimmy is as a person and understand why he would want to die on his own terms, especially when seeing him deal with his Alzheimer's. 

Even as a comedy, there is still some heart to the film. You might even find yourself crying at the end but also laughing. Who would have thought a movie about death could be so lighthearted. This movie is sad, poetic, funny, and everything you want out of a good, inspiring film about life. If you want to watch a movie that celebrates life and death, then Moon Manor is the film for you.

Moon Manor is out on March 11 in theaters and on demand.

Rating: 4/5