Unlocking the Heirloom Review: Navigating Lockdown Challenges with Insight

Ben Petrie’s The Heirloom is a captivating blend of comedy and drama that keeps audiences intrigued throughout.

This film feels like a mashup of different genres in just 87 minutes. It journeys through awkward comedy, deep relationship moments, and the struggles of pet ownership. At its core, it tackles the chaos brought on by COVID-19 lockdowns—showcasing both the despair and unexpected creativity sparked by isolation.

Petrie and Grace Glowicki, a real-life couple, take personal stakes to a new level by portraying semi-fictional versions of themselves. Their raw and honest performances blur the lines between reality and fiction, inviting viewers to question what’s real and what’s exaggerated. This unpredictability adds to the film’s charm, as the narrative shifts constantly, evolving with each scene.

The story kicks off with the couple adopting a dog, leading to attempts at creating a film about their new life. It’s not just about jokes; the film expertly balances humor and tension. For instance, Eric’s growing sense of despair is paired with an eerie score, amplifying the drama while still making audiences laugh. A standout moment involves Eric’s repetitive voice-over commands to the dog, adding layers of frustration and humor to his creative struggles.

The authenticity of Petrie and Glowicki shines through. Their willingness to reveal personal flaws makes their relationship feel relatable. When they dive into Eric’s film concept, their interaction blurs the line between rehearsed dialogue and real feelings, creating genuine moments amidst the chaos.

The film’s climax focuses on their pivotal relationship discussion, only to be interrupted by a crew member. Yet, they continue as if nothing happened, highlighting the spontaneity and messiness of real life. The evolving narrative—from adopting a dog to grappling with future aspirations—keeps the audience engaged. The transitions feel organic despite defying traditional storytelling techniques.

While most scenes take place in their apartment, the film avoids becoming monotonous. It captures the essence of feeling trapped during lockdowns without fully immersing the audience in that claustrophobic experience. Viewers might yearn for more visceral reflections of the emotional turmoil lockdowns caused, as the story sometimes skims over that crucial feeling of confinement.

At its heart, The Heirloom examines the strain of relationships, the trials of pet ownership, and the blurred lines of reality. Its playful trickery is fun, but it may leave viewers pondering its central message. Is it a reflection on love, self-discovery, or simply the weirdness of life during a pandemic? Each theme offers something interesting but ultimately, it remains a personal journey rather than a deep examination of its subjects.

The film serves as a testament to the strange experiences of the lockdowns. Each day felt like a blur, mirroring the repetitive nature of capturing the same scenes. Moviegoers, even years later, might find it hard to encapsulate that time, making this film resonate on an emotional level. It cleverly portrays the essence of navigating life’s chaos through humor, even if it leaves some questions unanswered.

Ultimately, The Heirloom captures the bizarre nature of life during lockdowns, offering humor and insight into an unpredictable time. Petrie’s work transcends mere storytelling; it creates a relatable experience filled with engaging twists.

The Heirloom will be available on digital platforms in the U.S. on June 10, 2025.

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