Recently we listed Matthew Lillard’s feature film debut, Fat Kid Rules the World, as a Netflix recommendation. Today we wanted to highlight a short film Lillard made in collaboration with the Vancouver Film School. Coming Home Soon offers a touching look at the loneliness and heartbreak that the spouses of those serving in the military often endure. After her husband is posted for duty in Afghanistan, newly married Tamara (Arielle Tuliao) finds it difficult to adjust to the realities of her life. Lillard patiently builds emotion in the film through the delicate way in which he lets his narrative unravel. The solid work from the cast helps to ensure that the film remains touching without ever feeling contrived.

Coming Home Soon
Director: Matthew Lillard / Canada / 2009 / 12 Minutes
Starring: Arielle Tuliao, Jared Abrahamson and Rachael Wegener