Writer-director Seth Worley’s new family film “Sketch” explores the complex emotions of growing up during a difficult time – like losing a parent. The story follows widower Taylor as he navigates preparing his home for sale while his children struggle with their own grief. Amber, his daughter, finds solace in drawing violent monsters, while her brother Jack tries to fix everything for her.
When Jack discovers a magic pond that brings back the family’s deceased mother, their school bus is overrun with Amber’s phantasmagoric creations. The animation is meticulously detailed and creative, reminding viewers of childhood imagination and play. Meanwhile, Taylor has a heart-to-heart with his sister Liz, who urges him to see the cracks in their broken family.
The film masterfully explores brother-sister relationships across ages and parallels the emotional pain of grief with unflappable love and deep concern for each other’s well-being. The sharp script examines how grief can manifest physically, mentally, and emotionally, while balancing humor and delightful moments. “Sketch” is a beautiful ode to art’s transformative power, reminding viewers that it’s never too late to work on their pain and let the light shine through.
Source: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/sketch-tony-hale-film-review-2025