User Reviews

This indie crime drama about a young mother trying to hold her life together and regain custody of her son is gritty, true to life and beautiful. Melanie Elise is the lead as Butterfly, a young homeless mother navigating poverty, unemployment and crime after losing her son Milo. The filmmakers did a nice job of showing the gritty, seedy, not so pretty side of life in a way that studio filmmakers just don't do these days. The locations also play a big role in this movie and really help to give it that gritty yet beautiful look. I really like some of the choices and use of lighting. Hats off to everyone involved.

Butterfly is a powerful drama that will really stay with you after the credits roll. It follows the story of a young woman's struggle with poverty, homelessness, employment, and above all, her love for her young son and her never ending quest to legally regain custody of him. The movie has some really powerful and emotional scenes, and it is truly an epic journey. I really liked the soundtrack throughout, there are some really great pieces of music in here. The cinematography was strong as well. The locations in this film were really interesting and it really takes you on a journey all around the city. Well done all around.

Butterfly, which follows a young woman as she works to overcome poverty and homelessness so that she can regain custody of her son, is a film with an interesting and in-depth story. The writing has a lot of layers to it and there are many strong characters that add to the whole thing. The colors and lighting were really well done and helped enhance the story. They did some really cool stuff with lighting and contrast as well! I also appreciated the costumes throughout. The movie tackles some bold and timely subjects which is important for independent films to do. Glad they went for a new angle here!

This is a very dramatic urban story. There are many facets to the writing of the story and the characters. I like that they identified issues of homelessness and the struggles that people in unusual circumstances face. Sometimes you have to claw at the water of life to keep your head up. The use of color and camera in the film is also refreshing. It lends a feel and tone to the drama. The locations also develop the film as a thematic focal point. The locations help create a sense of movement as we progress throughout the story. This movie looks at some largely unseen aspects of society. An interesting piece of movie making!

Nice urban story with a lot of drama. This movie had multiple levels to it's story and also it's characters. This movie makes you rethink and ponder what homelessness can do to a person and personalizes it. This movie reminded me to keep pursuing life even if obstacles come my way. I liked the tones and feel of this movie and I also liked the story arc. This movie covers many aspects of life that aren't always covered and uses those taboo topics to make you think in a way that cause reflection of your own life. I like the acting and characters and I liked the way it was shot. I'll be watching other movies with this cast.

This was a well written indie film that actually made me feel good! What a great story! I loved the main character, Rhee; She was so believable and perfectly cast. I cared about her, was cheering for her the whole film, and thoroughly engaged watching her journey play out. I enjoyed a lot of the other characters as well and thought they were cast well and the actors did a good job embodying them. The film definitely sends a message of hope to people trying climb out of a tough place and how values can play into that. If you're looking for an uplifting film about overcoming struggles, I highly recommend this one, it won't disappoint.

This independent crime drama portrays the journey of a young mother striving to rebuild her life and reunite with her son. The film encapsulates a raw, authentic, and poignant narrative. Melanie Elise delivers a captivating performance as Butterfly, a homeless mother grappling with adversity, poverty, and the underbelly of society following the loss of her son, Milo. The filmmakers skillfully capture the harsh realities of life, showcasing a side rarely explored by mainstream studios. The selection of locations significantly enhances the film's gritty yet captivating visual appeal. The innovative soundtrack stands out as a commendable aspect. Kudos to the entire team for their exceptional efforts in bringing this compelling story to life.

Have you ever seen a movie that from start to finish in every way was done for the right reasons? Butterfly is that movie. The writing, directing, acting - all of it done without ego or self importance. The story is deeply felt, kind and thrilling all without being exploitative and without sparing the harsh realities that women like Butterly face every day. The characters that inhabit her world are rich, surprising and true. The performances are sincere and no-holds-barred. The writing is cavernous and winding with a finale that could sit right alongside the best works of other directors like Sean Baker or Craig Brewer. The directing isn't flashy or braggadocios. It exists to present these people and their environment as layered and soulful. This is the best kind of independent film. A breath of fresh air in 2024's cinematic landscape.

Emy Jay's 'Butterfly' is a poignant drama that lingers in your mind long after the screen fades to black. The film delves into the heart-wrenching narrative of a young woman grappling with the harsh realities of poverty, homelessness, and the relentless pursuit of employment, all while navigating the tumultuous terrain of motherhood and her unwavering determination to regain custody of her son. 'Butterfly' is an emotional rollercoaster, with powerful scenes that tug at the heartstrings and leave a lasting impact. The film's soundtrack adds depth to the storytelling, featuring memorable musical pieces that resonate with the audience. Additionally, the cinematography is striking, capturing the essence of the diverse and captivating locations that serve as the backdrop for the protagonist's journey through the city. Emy Jay's 'Butterfly' is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a masterful exploration of love, loss, and the pursuit of redemption. A must-watch for any cinephile.