The Book of Love (2016 film)

The Book of Love (2016 film) is an American drama film directed by Bill Purple in his feature directorial debut. The screenplay was written by Purple and Robbie Pickering, with the film being produced by Molly Smith and the Luckinbill brothers for Black Label Media. It premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2016 before a limited theatrical release in the United States in 2017.

Plot

The narrative follows Henry, a grieving architect in New Orleans struggling after the death of his wife. His life intersects with Millie, a homeless teenage girl, when he discovers she is building a raft based on blueprints from his late wife's secret graphic novel. As Henry helps Millie complete the vessel, intended to sail to Mexico, their unlikely friendship forces both to confront their profound losses and isolation. The story explores themes of redemption and connection, weaving between Henry's painful memories of his marriage and the burgeoning, paternal bond he forms with the resilient Millie.

Cast

The ensemble is led by Jason Sudeikis as the somber architect Henry, marking a dramatic departure from his comedic roles in projects like Saturday Night Live. Jessica Biel portrays his late wife, Julia, appearing in flashback sequences. Maisie Williams of Game of Thrones fame plays the resourceful and wounded Millie. Supporting roles include Mary Steenburgen as Henry's well-meaning mother-in-law, Paul Reiser as his business partner, and Orlando Jones as a sympathetic police officer. The cast also features John C. McGinley and M. C. Gainey in smaller parts.

Production

Principal photography commenced in New Orleans, Louisiana, utilizing the city's distinctive architecture and waterways as a central character. Director Bill Purple collaborated with cinematographer Tim Orr, known for his work on films like *Joe*, to capture the atmospheric setting. The score was composed by Toby Chu, and the production company involved was Black Label Media, which was also behind films like *Sicario*. The graphic novel elements within the film were designed to visually mirror the emotional journey of the characters.

Release

The film had its world premiere on April 16, 2016, at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City. Following its festival run, distribution rights were acquired by Screen Media Films. It was released in a limited number of theaters in the United States on January 13, 2017, coinciding with a simultaneous release on video on demand platforms. This release strategy is common for independent dramas seeking wider audience reach beyond the traditional theatrical market.

Reception

Critical reception was mixed, with many reviewers praising the performances of Jason Sudeikis and Maisie Williams but critiquing the film's familiar narrative and sentimental tone. Review aggregation website Rotten Tomatoes reported a low approval rating, with criticism often directed at the conventional plot mechanics. However, some noted the sincere chemistry between the lead actors and the effective portrayal of New Orleans. The film did not achieve significant commercial success during its limited theatrical run.

Category:2016 films Category:American drama films Category:Films set in New Orleans Category:Black Label Media films