To Dust
In the film, “To Dust,” first time feature director Shawn Snyder tells of the lengths a devastated widower goes to find out exactly how his deceased wife’s body is decaying.
In the film, “To Dust,” first time feature director Shawn Snyder tells of the lengths a devastated widower goes to find out exactly how his deceased wife’s body is decaying. Hasidic cantor Shmuel (Géza Röhrig) begins to have night terrors (animated sequences designed by Robert Morgan) about what his wife’s body is going through. Even though the Orthodox community gives Shmuel support, he feels that this is something he cannot discuss with them. Looking for answers, Shmuel heads to the local community college and into the classroom of gentile biology professor, Albert (Matthew Broderick). He talks the professor into helping him figure out the process of decay.
They research decay in several ways, by performing lab experiments on dirt and going on a research road trip. As a result, a reluctant friendship eventually begins between the two men.
“To Dust” is truly a unique twist on the buddy movie. Röhrig & Broderick are entertaining and give both heartfelt and deadpan performances in this charming macabre film about dealing with loss.
Jen Evans is the community liaison for the AJT.
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