Reflective Encounters

“Lovingly told through simple narration and poetic imagery, Into Light is a sweet snapshot of a mother and her young child as they experience a poignant transition in their relationship and explore the complexity of gender identity.

Into Light feels sparklingly human. The sound design is a particular highlight - deft and subtle soundscapes matched with warm narration, empowered by moments of hesitation and insecurity. We are welcomed into our narrator’s life and her evolving relationships. However, the polished imagery at times pulls us out of the film’s sense of honesty: a mother knits, her blue wool glowing in the sunlight, ice gathers in gorgeous fractals on a windowpane. These images are undeniably beautiful, but sometimes perfection can hold us at arm’s length.

One of Into Light’s strongest moments comes when the mother dictates a letter she sent to her neighbours, explaining her child’s transition. There is humour and admission of difficulty in the letter, and it is in these pockets of honesty that the film glows the brightest. As trans stories become more accessible, it would be wonderful to see stories of transition through a lens of love and learning, acknowledging that imperfection is all part of the journey.”

— Malaika Kegode