I never found myself able to form any type of connection with the mediocre documentary “Adrianne & The Castle,” a love story featuring subjects that aren’t the slightest bit compelling. In director Shannon Walsh’s true story of love and loss, she explores the role of grief in the artistic process. The ideas are all there, but the film isn’t executed well and just doesn’t work.
Alan and Adrianne St. George always led a unique and unusual life. In an act to showcase their grandiose love, they built an elaborate castle in rural Illinois. After Adrianne died, Alan grappled with unimaginable grief. The only thing that seems to help him get through the days of facing the reality of a future without his partner is his ability to participate in creative musical re-enactments of their romance.
The fairytale-like film manages to capture the act of creative expression and its power to transport humans to a fantasy world. There’s joy and healing in art, and the film manifests that well. A major problem, however, is that the documentary feels too repetitive and long drawn out. I feel like this would’ve been much better suited for a short film rather than a feature, which would’ve served the subjects far better.
On the surface the premise sounds intriguing, and it is, up to a point. It’s heartwarming to see Alan showcase the most memorable and significant parts of his life with Adrianne, but a lot of these dramatic recreations feel too forced and contrived (the emotional honesty is there, at least). It’s the overall execution of “Adrianne and the Castle” that falls short.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 