“We headed back to the Belcourt where we saw Alyson and Jen’s “Eve Of Understanding” I have to say, I was filled with trepidation, because a movie about a woman delivering messages and boons of her dead mother before scattering her ashes sounds a little, well… chick flick? So it was incredibly refreshing to see a movie produced by women who’s main female character was so deliciously f*@#ked up. As soon as Donna puts out her cigarette on the coffee can holding her dead mother’s ashes I knew this movie was the opposite of lame.”

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M.J. Loheed, writer/director “Freeze Out”

“With “Eve of Understanding,” writer/director/producer Alyson Shelton has crafted a film of uncommon wisdom, authentic dialogue, simple humanity and, most importantly, a film that captures eloquently the often delicate balance between humiliation and exhilaration that life’s journey often affords us…when our film professors and acting coaches and theatre directors teach our next generation of actors, writers and directors it is films such as “Eve of Understanding” that they should use as shining examples of film-making in its truest and purest form.”

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Richard Propes, IndependentCritics.com

“One of the best movies I’ve seen!”

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Brian Morton, Rogue Cinema

” 4 Stars! Wonderfully scripted with a natural and realistic tone throughout. The lead is very good and matches the tone of the script so well, she really does bring the character to life and give her a huge amount of depth, conveying her personal journey as though she was going through it right there on screen.”

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Richard Brunton, Filmstalker

“This is one of those independent films where halfway through I start to wonder if Miramax, or Focus, or Fox Searchlight didn’t sink millions into it. Writer/Director Alyson Shelton is fantastic. If you don’t have a file on her already, start one. If you’re in casting and you don’t have a file on Rebecca Lowman then you need to be in another business. She has a working actor’s résumé a mile long, but this appears to be her first full on lead. She doesn’t just carry this film she dances with it. Kudos should go out to all of the departments on this one, too, especially DP Elizabeth Santoro. She’s another one to keep an eye on, as her work is invisible – beautiful, but without upstaging the actors or the story. See this movie, not because you’re in the business, but because you’re a human being and so need and deserve to be exposed to work that is this good. Brava!”

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Robert Mellette, Dances With Films

“Eve of Understanding is the type of film that gives substance to independent filmmaking. It makes the actor want to work more. The pulse of life is in the hands of the indie filmmaker, this is why I work in them. It gives purpose to my art and therefore purpose to my life.”

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Nick Nolte
Actor

“I didn’t have the courage to say hello in person today-so I’m doing it now. I saw the screening of Eve this afternoon at the Waterfront Film Festival. Wow. I was deeply moved by the story- the journey that Donna took & especially the feeling of always knowing deep inside something was “off” but never being able to place it. I too, grew up not knowing my own biology, and I found myself really reaching a new level of healing just watching the film. Thank you both for such beautiful, beautiful work. It is appreciated!”

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Anonymous

“I just got home from an amazing weekend at the Waterfront Film Festival. On Sunday, I had the fortunate experience of seeing the second viewing of the Eve of Understanding, and was inspired and compelled to send you an email. I am a survivor of domestic violence. When I saw the description of your movie I was intrigued, and at the same time hesitant. As a survivor, I am a bit more sensitive and concerned about how the subject matter is handled. I can honestly say that I am glad I chose to view your movie. Eve of Understanding presents an honest and accurate portrayal of the experience of domestic violence, and all the complicated relationships that it impacts. It also provides a sense of hope and healing, despite all the obstacles, and that the cycle of violence can be broken. Thank you for treating this subject matter with a great deal of respect and honest perspective. I have already told some family members about it, and would love for them to be able to experience the movie. I will continue to spread the word … and eagerly look forward to seeing it again. I wish you all great success!”

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A Survivor

“Eve of Understanding is a knock-out film on many levels. It is a thought-provoking journey of self-discovery that hits close to the heart. With a compelling and talented cast, an intelligent script and superb direction, the film strikes a chord with its audience in an emotional, touching and very sensitive way. Anyone dealing with ghosts from their past MUST see this film! Old wounds can be ripped right open, as is obvious in Eve of Understanding. It’s how we deal with these wounds that makes us strong. This film proves triumphant in bringing so many powerful issues to the forefront! BRAVO!”

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Patrick Schweiss
Executive Director, Sedona International Film Festival & Workshop

“Rebecca Lowman’s performance in Eve of Understanding was a sensational breakout performance. It came from an actor I was not yet familiar with who, I now realize, is currently gathering rave reviews for her performance also in the play, I Witness at the Mark Taper Forum. Lowman’s performance in Eve of Understanding is captivating. It is heartfelt, and hits all the marks throughout the film. Lowman “is the part,” and it is consistent with the passion of the filmmakers, and entire cast on the Eve of Understanding. Like Lowman’s performance,which will be a great discovery for Hollywood, Eve of Understanding is a discovery film, understated, done on a shoestring, and utterly convincing throughout. Exactly what we need more of…a film that feels real.”

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Don Franken, Executive
Director, The 9th annual The Method Fest Independent Film Festival

“Rebecca Lowman’s strong, finely textured portrayal of Donna proves that she deserves to be singled out as one of her generation’s premier actresses. Writer/director Alyson Shelton and cinematographer Elizabeth Santoro have created a taut yet forgiving world. With sharp, spare dialogue, Eve of Understanding is an unblinking look at the redemptive power of self-forgiveness, equal parts hilarity and heartbreak.”

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Bridgette Poe, AFI Dallas