‘Hope’ is a low-budget student production that deserves appreciation for effort. The film’s compelling narrative holds up okay, but not quite strong enough to hold down engagement. Taze Wilson’s performance comes across a tad overly-sentimental, which viewers may find inauthentic. Weak characterization and a limited backstory are likely to divert audience empathy.

The film would benefit from additional scenes that showcase the characters development and progress. Cinematography, sound and editing is of an acceptable standard for an amateur production. The use of a vocal soundtrack throughout the film doesn’t play well and comes across excessive and unnecessary. Alexandra Maxwell (Filmmaker) has creative potential and we look forward to seeing her career develop.