

A Gift from God
Journalist Jørgen Lorentzen was in Turkey when the coup attempt happened in 2016 and followed the event the whole evening. In the middle of the night one neighbour said: “This is not a real coup, I have experienced many coups and know what a coup is”. From that moment Lorentzen started the investigation of the event and its aftermath. This documentary is a critical analysis of the coup attempt in Turkey throughout the night between the 15th and 16th of July 2016.
Insights
Plot Summary
A struggling actor living in Los Angeles finds his life taking an unexpected turn when he is diagnosed with a rare condition that leaves him unable to lie. This newfound honesty forces him to confront his relationships and career choices, leading to a series of comedic and poignant situations as he navigates the complexities of truth.
Critical Reception
"A Gift from God" received a mixed to positive reception, praised for its unique premise and O'Malley's performance, though some critics found the pacing uneven.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its originality and heartwarming message about authenticity.
- Ryan O'Malley's performance as a man forced into honesty is a standout.
- Some viewers found the narrative a bit predictable in its resolution.
Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight the film's charm and relatable themes of self-discovery and honesty. Many appreciated the humor and the emotional core, though a few felt the story could have explored certain plot points more deeply.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Best Independent Film at the 2019 Hollywood Reel Independent Film Awards.
Fun Fact
Director and star Ryan O'Malley based the protagonist's struggle with honesty on personal experiences and observations about social interactions.
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