-Written by Kyle Bain.
Imagine your father was considered a genius in the world of music, collaborating with figures such as Stevie Wonder and Peter Gabriel–additionally, however, there are some questions surrounding his death. You don’t know whether or not to believe the stories, because you never had the chance to meet him. So you travel the world in search of answers, in search of the truth. This sounds like a fictionalized story developed in Hollywood–but this is the true story of Alison Tavel, and Resynator captures her journey.
The old adage “curiosity killed the cat” comes to mind while watching Resynator. There aren’t only questions surrounding Tavel’s father’s death, but his life as well. As Tavel plans to leave no stone left unturned, she is certain to find things that will uproot her life and alter its trajectory for the foreseeable future. It’s clear that, at the start of this documentary, Tavel is unaware of what lies ahead, what obstacles she will be forced to overcome–and by the film’s conclusion, it’s clear that Tavel has been changed. For the better? For the worse? I feel that’s up to the viewer to decide.
A veritable pendulum of emotion, swaying back and forth between elation and depression, Resynator captures the true essence of what Tavel experiences on her journey. Beyond the attempted discovery of who her father truly was, Resynator is shrouded in self-discovery as well–a theme that becomes more prominent as the documentary progresses. It’s one thing to find out about others, but entirely different to discover who you are, what your passions are, what motivates you, etc. Resynator projects this, becoming incredibly visceral as we become more and more entranced by Tavel’s journey, as she thrusts herself out into the world, one steeped in mystery and uncertainty.
What makes Resynator different from other documentaries? What made the film fly by? What allowed me to remain present in it and appreciate it every step of the way? Tavel’s presence for one. She’s engaging, ensuring that viewers feel a connection to her, leaving very little (if anything at all) to the imagination–inviting the world into her life in ways that most certainly made her feel vulnerable. She’s willing to take the plunge with viewers at her side, and I feel that her wanting us to come along for the ride makes this a unique experience, much more immersive than most other documentaries. Additionally, Tavel has a knack for storytelling, developing a linear story, effectively laying out each of the many steps along the way.
Resynator is a symphony of emotion, brought to life and effectively balanced by Tavel, a curious, yet wonderfully pragmatic explorer. She sets her course, and she does all that she can to adhere to a schedule that will allow her to uncover the truth, to become immersed in the world of her late father. Resynator is a touching story of father and daughter, paired masterfully with a compelling score and enticing soundtrack. It hits all the right notes, evokes a series of emotions, and entertains from start to finish.
Directed by Alison Tavel.
Written by Kathryn Robson & Alison Tavel.
Starring Alison Tavel, etc.
8/10 = WORTH RENTING OR BUYING
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