Rabbit Hole (John Cameron Mitchell, 2010): USA

Reviewed by Yuichi K. Viewed at Egyptian Theatre, AFI Fest

People say the heart that parents care for children is more than the heart that children take care of their parents. Rabbit Hole focuses on the parents’ heart.

The story starts at the garden of a simple house. Becca(Nicole Kidman) is gardening there. At a glance, it’s a peaceful afternoon. However, one thing is lacked on to her. It’s her only kid, named Danny. Danny was killed by a car accident years ago. Her husband, Howie(Aaron Eckhart), watches and gently treats her, but Howie also has a deep hurt on his heart for it. They try to meet a doctor, join a conference and make a mood for next kids, but they has spent time meaninglessly. One day, Becca finds a high school student who is similar to Danny. His name is Jason(Miles Teller). He is good at drawing. Fortunately, Becca has a chance to meet in a park and help his homework.

In the story, Becca and Howie remember about Danny very much. They sometimes absorb by memories of Danny. However, when Becca decides to clean up Danny’s things, small changes come up to them.

“Rabbit Hole” is written by David Lindsay-Abaire as a play. It was open in 2005. The play was nominated for Tony Awards and won Pulitzer Prize for Drama. David Lindsay-Abaire also wrote the screenplay for film. John Cameron Michell directed it, who is known for “Shortbus”

Do you have your rabbit hole? Rabbit hole keeps a rabbit safe and comfortable. Rabbits always take refuge to it. Becca and Howie also have a rabbit hole. It’s named “Danny” However, they need a step. What kind of things they can watch when they decides Danny’s memory clean? I wish it’s a new and shiny view. “Rabbit Hole” will open December 17, 2010 in the United States.