It would be nearly impossible to not have an appreciation for Paw Mama, a 63-minute feature from writer/director David N. Reyes released independently via FilmHub and available on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Fawesome and others. 

The film centers around a winning performance by Kimberlee Watson as Grace, a passionate animal advocate who moves back home to live with her sister (played beautifully by Laura Frances) when her life begins to spiral out of control. Paw Mama has a core narrative thread as a pandemic film, though dismissing it as such would be a big mistake. In the film, the Covid-19 pandemic arrives and allows Grace to take comfort in her isolation. However, two years later the social isolation is lifting for seemingly everyone but Grace as she struggles to return to a normal routine and rejoin the world. 

Paw Mama is one of those quiet indies that you really can't help but enjoy. With a tapestry of comedy and drama, Reyes crafts a compelling story weaving together the pandemic influence, animal advocacy, and the vitality of village. There's never much doubt where this story's going to go, however, it's the journey that matters and this journey is engaging and entertaining. Watson's portrayal of Grace is one that so many of us can identify with, the rhythm we fell into during the pandemic becoming our new norm until it wasn't anymore and we were forced to return to a different routine. Watson nicely captures Grace's genuine passion for animals and her sense of almost befuddlement throughout her two years in social isolation and her slow return, with the help of her people, to a personal and professional life. 

Frances similarly shines as DeeDee, Grace's sister and a safe space who draws us in and holds our attention. The rest of the ensemble matches the energy and tone of both Watson and Frances leading to Paw Mama being a quietly enjoyable film. 

Lensing by Valentine McKee is visually arresting yet also immersive and relatable. There's an emotional resonance throughout Paw Mama courtesy of McKee's cinematography, Reyes' honest dialogue, and Annie Proffitt's production design. 

Paw Mama is a dramatic film. Paw Mama is a lightly funny film. Yet, mostly, Paw Mama is a heartfelt and human film about the human experience, the experiences that bind us together, the animals that often provide us the love we need, and about what heals us and brings us back to life and community. 

Check it out on Prime Video, Fawesome, or watch for it on other streaming outlets. 

Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic