Negative Space

Negative Space is a 2014 American independent comedy-drama film directed by Teddy Coluca and Jordan Roberts. It tells the story of Sam, a young boy who is struggling to cope with his father's frequent absences due to his job as a salesman, often traveling for extended periods. Sam's world is turned upside down when his father decides to leave for a business trip, just as Sam is getting ready to leave for a family vacation with his eccentric great-grandfather. Sam's mother is unable to help him pack his suitcase due to her own chaotic state, so Sam decides to seek the help of his absentee father. He visits his father in his study, where he discovers a neatly packed suitcase, and asks for his expertise on how to pack like a pro. His father, played by Brian Hargrove, takes a break from his busy schedule to teach Sam the intricate art of packing a suitcase in a way that is both efficient and visually pleasing. As Sam and his father work together to pack his suitcase, a unique bond forms between them. The father's patient guidance and Sam's eagerness to please create a sense of connection and understanding that they may not have otherwise experienced. The father explains that packing a suitcase is not just about placing clothes in a bag; it's an art that requires attention to detail, creativity, and a sense of style. Through their conversation, the father shares stories about his own childhood, his travels, and his career as a salesman, giving Sam a glimpse into his complicated and busy life. Sam, in turn, opens up about his feelings of anxiety and uncertainty about his father's frequent absences. As they work together, both the father and Sam learn to communicate and appreciate each other's perspectives in a way that they never have before. The film's title, Negative Space, refers to the art of packing and the way that objects occupy the space around us. As Sam and his father work together, they explore the concept of negative space and how it relates to the empty spaces in their lives. They discuss how the absence of a parent can be both a physical and emotional presence, just like a suitcase can be both empty and full. As the vacation approaches, Sam is able to apply the skills he has learned from his father to pack his suitcase efficiently and beautifully. His mother, who has been struggling to cope with her own anxiety and feelings of inadequacy, is impressed by Sam's newfound abilities and senses a sense of pride and connection with her son. When Sam sets off on his family vacation, he is able to navigate the complexities of his family dynamics more confidently, knowing that he has a deeper understanding of his father's motivations and a sense of connection that transcends his physical absence. The film ends on a hopeful note, suggesting that even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, human connections can be formed and nurtured through the smallest of actions, like packing a suitcase. Negative Space offers a nuanced and thoughtful portrayal of the complexities of family relationships, particularly the challenges faced by children when their parents are absent or distant. The film's unique premise and clever storytelling make it a compelling and heartwarming exploration of the human experience, one that lingers long after the credits roll.