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British actress, Milly-May McLaughlin, produces and stars in award winning Italian mob drama “Bless Me Father” available on Prime Video.
Movie enthusiasts who have a profound appreciation for independent films, particularly modern day crime movies will find themselves captivated by the gritty and powerful narrative of “Bless Me Father.” Keep in mind this is the filmmaker’s debut feature film, so it has its quirks here and there but overall the movie hits home. This is comparable to Martin Scorsese’s debut feature “Who’s That Knocking At My Door”, mixed with his cult classic hit “Mean Streets”, starring Robert Deniro. There is a lot of raw young New York talent in “Bless Me Father”, reminds me of the same talent that captivated us all in the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s. Could it just be their accents that bring me back to this classic era? Or is the golden era of New York Italian mafia movies back in the roaring 20’s?
What makes “Bless Me Father” truly unique is the fact that it was born out of a couple’s decision to create a movie instead of having a wedding. British actress Milly-May McLaughlin embarked on a journey that took her from East London to America, where she met her husband, Gianni McLaughlin. Together, they crafted a film that delves into the depths of the Italian mob, showcasing the pain and suffering that accompany a gangster’s life.
“Bless Me Father” is a critically acclaimed crime drama-thriller that has garnered immense recognition, having won 12 awards and received six nominations for Best Feature Film, Best Actor, and Best Ensemble Cast. This achievement is even more impressive considering that the cast is composed of local New Jersey residents, many of whom are non-actors. This approach adds a layer of authenticity to the movie, making it one of the first modern-day neorealist mob films.
The inspiration behind “Bless Me Father” stems from the desire to shed light on the gritty reality of a gangster’s life rather than glorifying it, as is often seen in mainstream cinema. The film provides an unflinching portrayal of the mafia, the Catholic Church, and family dynamics in New Jersey, exposing the audience to the pain, suffering, and consequences that come with living the “thug life.” It delves into the complexities of loyalty, honor, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of power and control. Not only does the movie showcase the dark underbelly of the mafia but also tells a beautiful love story that transcends traditional boundaries.
One cannot fully appreciate the depth of “Bless Me Father” without acknowledging the extraordinary journey of its creators. Milly-May McLaughlin, a talented British actress, found herself drawn to the allure of America after a visit to New York City in 2015. Determined to explore new horizons, she pursued her dreams and relocated to the United States. Milly-May’s passion for storytelling led her to study at the renowned American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where she began carving a path for herself in the industry.
Fate had other plans for Milly-May when she met Gianni McLaughlin backstage during the rehearsal of the off-Broadway play “D.O.A.” Their connection was instantaneous, and they soon realized they shared not only a deep love for each other but also a mutual passion for storytelling. Within five months, they tied the knot, but their plans for a grand wedding celebration were thwarted by the unexpected arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Undeterred by the setback, Milly-May and Gianni channeled their disappointment into a groundbreaking endeavor. They decided to utilize the funds saved from the canceled wedding to bring Gianni’s screenplay, “Bless Me Father,” to life. The summer of 2020 became the stage for their creative journey as they embarked on the six-week production of the film. Amid a world gripped by uncertainty, the cast and crew of “Bless Me Father” formed a tight-knit community on set, finding solace and purpose in their collaborative efforts.
“Bless Me Father” is more than just a movie; it is a testament to the power of love, determination, and the pursuit of artistic expression. Milly-May McLaughlin’s and Gianni McLaughlin’s decision to transform their canceled wedding into a cinematic masterpiece exemplifies their unwavering commitment to storytelling. Their unique approach, featuring non-actors and an authentic depiction of the mafia, sets “Bless Me Father” apart from other films in the genre.
As viewers immerse themselves in the world of “Bless Me Father,” they will witness the extraordinary culmination of two creative minds and hearts. The film’s availability on PRIME VIDEO & TUBI ensures that a wide audience can appreciate the profound narrative and cinematic brilliance that defines this independent gem. So, prepare to be enthralled as “Bless Me Father” takes you on a gripping journey into the depths of the Italian mob, reminding us all that dreams can be transformed into reality through the power of storytelling.
To watch the movie you can rent or buy on Prime Video.
To learn more about “Bless Me Father” and its creators, visit their official website at www.blessmefathermovie.site. You can also follow their journey on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/blessmefather.movie and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/blessmefathermovie.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this extraordinary cinematic achievement that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Watch “Bless Me Father” now on PRIME VIDEO and immerse yourself in a world of love, crime, and creative vision.
