Guided only by the wind and tide, a small white ship sails the stunning, deep blue sea. As viewers, we are invited to join the family’s journey aboard the ship and share an unforgettable experience with the film’s Director, Lauren-Ann Smith, and her family. This is a journey about coming home.
Allow me to introduce you to the Smith family. The father, Adam Smith, loves the sea, while the mum, Joanne Smith, keeps the family together. Lauren-Ann Smith, the filmmaker of this very documentary, is the only daughter in the family. Her brothers are Sam and Mackenzie. Sam Smith is an autistic young man who has always been connected to the water. The youngest of them all, Mackenzie Smith, is a young man who enjoys a new adventure, sunshine and playing his guitar. Through various interviews, we gain a greater understanding of this family, such as their passion for boating, their experiences with the water, and pleasure in having family experiences. As a family, the Smiths have reached a point where they feel now is the time for change. So perhaps you’re wondering why this family would ever desire to go on a voyage and make an ultimate lifestyle change.
For a long time, this family has been seeking a life that feels more normal. The elder son, Sam Smith, who has Autism, cannot speak and has intense outbursts. Informed by professionals that Sam will require 24/7 care for the rest of his life, the family feels that discovering a slice of peace doesn’t seem achievable given the challenges they face. On one of Sam’s rough days, while the family is on holiday, Adam and Joanne decide to hire a boat for the day, leading to a huge discovery. When Sam steps onto the boat and enters a new world, the family is awed and amazed as he finds peace. This experience leads the Smith family on a new path of hope.
Against The Tide is profoundly touching and packed with many heartfelt moments. Even if you don’t enjoy life on the sea, the story here about one family attempting to find peace and their dreams will inspire and resonate with audiences. We all have dreams we often ponder, but how often do we plan and go for them believing they will provide peace and fulfilment? As a family man, I’m thankful for the Smith family’s honesty, openness, and authenticity about their family situation as they share their desires and dreams and discuss the many challenges surrounding Sam. I found many moments relatable, such as witnessing Adam and Joanne expressing their fears and concerns for their family and the future. During moments like these that I found myself admiring their journey and documentary.
Visually the feature was excellent. Most of the visuals are steady and easy to view, plus there are high-quality captures of our gorgeous, deep blue seas and warm beaches that truly show how blessed we are in Australia. Sure, some moments here have come from handheld recordings; however, I found it forgiving as it was great content and felt raw. Against The Tide also feels most rewarding to those who see the film on the big screen, particularly during the moments of underwater footage and aerial footage of the open seas. The audio quality here can’t be faulted. The voice tracks are clear, there is a soft, heartfelt score, and the interviews are edited wonderfully. I also enjoyed the film’s narration from the Director herself, which provided a pleasant atmosphere. The story here is told well from start to finish, with only the third act slightly slower than the rest. Viewers will gain a great understanding of this family and their entire life-changing journey.
Overall, Against The Tide isn’t just a documentary that focuses on a family trying to journey at sea; it’s a heartfelt story about the challenges a loving family face as they follow their desire for peace for all family members, particularly Sam, who has Autism. It’s a journey that feels deeply personal and raw, and thanks to Director Lauren-Ann Smith, it’s now being shared with the world. I couldn’t help but feel thankful for this family sharing their journey on the big screen. The film is inspiring, uplifting, encouraging, visually stunning, and has a beautiful instrumental score. There are positive messages throughout, such as being thankful for what’s around you, being sure to live your life to the fullest and making plans to pursue your dreams instead of just pondering them.
Against The Tide (2023) is Now Available at the Gold Coast Film Festival 2023. For more information and session times, check out the link here: https://www.gcfilmfestival.com/
7.3/10
23rd April 2023
Written by Peter Walkden
WALKDEN ENTERTAINMENT
PODCASTS ARE AVAILABLE!
Apart from GCFF, where / when will I be able to see Against the Tide?
Hi Mark, no further news has been released as the film just had its first screening last week. I strongly suggest you follow the film on social media (Instagram: againstthetidefilm) or online http://www.againstthetidedocumentary.com to be kept up to date with more information.