The Almond and the Seahorse is a great movie—raw, emotional, and unexpectedly laced with elements of comedy. Co-written by acclaimed playwright Kaite O’Reilly and actor/director Celyn Jones, who also co-directs alongside Tom Stern, the film delves deep into the emotional complexities of two couples grappling with the aftermath of traumatic brain injury (TBI). The story focuses not only on the direct sufferers but also emphasizes the “heart damage” endured by their partners, who must navigate this new reality.
At its core, The Almond and the Seahorse is a moving reflection on love, loss, and adaptation. The sensitive portrayal of living with an invisible illness like TBI resonates deeply, with the film handling the subject matter thoughtfully. The cast—led by Charlotte Gainsbourg, Trine Dyrholm, and Rebel Wilson—delivers compelling performances. Gainsbourg and Dyrholm convey the emotional weight of caregiving while Wilson showcases her dramatic range in an unexpected departure from her usual comedic roles. Together, they bring a perfect balance of vulnerability and resilience.
Celyn Jones emphasizes that the film portrays love in “its rawest form,” offering comfort to those going through similar situations. The unexpected moments of humor provide a necessary release, making the film feel as genuine as life itself.
In their directorial debut, Jones and Stern guide the film with precision, blending emotional intensity with warmth and levity. Stern’s cinematographic expertise from Million Dollar Baby and American Sniper adds a refined visual touch, enhancing the film’s intimate, human-centered focus.
In sum, The Almond and the Seahorse is a heartfelt, compelling story that blends raw emotion with moments of comedy, offering a deeply personal yet universal reflection on love and resilience in the face of trauma. It’s available on digital platforms, making it accessible to a wide audience seeking comfort and connection.
Available in digital formats now
Producers: Andy Evans, Alex Ashworth, Sean Marley, Alison Brister
Executive Producers: Laure Vaysse for Harcourt Capital, Bizzy Day and Pauline Burt for Ffilm Cymru Wales, Phil Hunt and Compton Ross for Head Gear, Nicola Pearcey for Picnik Entertainment Ltd, with Stephen Kelliher and Yana Georgieva for Bankside Films and Eddie Izzard.
Cast: Rebel Wilson, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Trine Dyrholm, Celyn Jones, Meera Syal, Ruth Madeley, Alice Lowe
Rating: 15
