Mar. 25, 2022|United States|90 Min.|n/A
Genre: Drama
Description: The opening moments of *Topside* are deeply impactful. It begins with a powerful quote from Jennifer Toth’s *The Mole People: Life in the Tunnels Beneath New York City*, which inspired the film. The quote highlights a haunting reality about homelessness: “JC told me initially that his community had no children. After a moment, he added, ‘We have adults as young as five.’” This statement sets the tone for the story. We then see a young girl illuminated by a single beam of light in the darkness, resembling an angel in a Renaissance painting. She lives with her mother, Nikki, in an abandoned subway tunnel.
Nikki, portrayed by co-writer and co-director Celine Held, has created a fragile world for her daughter in this underground labyrinth. The tunnel is home to a few residents who have fashioned makeshift living spaces with basic furniture and even doors. The young girl, known only as Little, watches cartoons on a tablet but has never seen the world above ground, referred to as “topside.” Her name reflects her innocence, as she is simply called Little.
The relationship between Nikki and Little echoes themes seen in *Room*. Nikki strives to protect her daughter from the harsh realities of their environment, crafting a comforting space despite their bleak surroundings. However, unlike the resilient mother in *Room*, Nikki is emotionally damaged and struggles to plan for the future. Her understanding of their circumstances is limited, leaving her unable to envision a way out.
The story unfolds in a cold, dark tunnel filled with unsettling sounds—rumbling trains, dripping water, and the intrusive beams of security flashlights. Nikki reassures Little with soft murmurs, promising safety and encouraging her belief in the possibility of growing wings. Yet, the challenges of their existence weigh heavily on Nikki, who is herself barely more than a child in terms of navigating their dire situation.
*Topside* is a poignant exploration of resilience, survival, and the lengths a mother will go to protect her child, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Cast director: Logan George
Cast actor: Celine Held, Zhalia Farmer, FatLip, Jared Abrahamson, Gino Vento, Tonye Patano, Lorrie Odom, Cynthia Tombros
Original name: Topside