Breadcrumbs
Truth Be Told
Oliver and Papa O'Toole's time at the Mailbox Grille were the first major hints about what is to come. Not only has Papa O'Toole been spending more time in the wilderness, he invited Oliver to come with him sometime---just as we can expect from Lost Without You. And it's clear one of the topics of discussion will be why dear old dad bailed on the Post Office and 200 years of O'Toole family tradition.
But don't we already know the answer?
If you were with A&D way back when Truth Be Told aired (or have scoured every inch of the website since you joined ADsquad), you might remember the original synopsis for the film, which actually included the answer. Apparently there was a scene subsequently cut from the film that answers this burning question, here's the description: |
The only question now is will the explanation stand, or will another plot-progressing answer emerge? Only time will tell!
Remember These Things
It was a critical clue in One In A Million, but what if it was something more? Ever since I heard the translation of the Latin featured on the Dark of Night award, the phrase "Perhaps one day it will be good to remember this[these things]" has called me to pay close attention to the happenings of One In A Million as possible clues to rescuing the O'Toole men in Lost Without You. Consider that thought reinforced by Papa O'Toole's declaration in the trailer that "I didn't tell anyone where we were going," suggesting some sleuthing will be required to find them. And this Instagram share from Kristin featuring Shane and Papa O'Toole has me thinking that the outcome may hinge on what Shane can remember about her interactions with him and Oliver prior to their departure---and maybe some divine intervention as well: |
Road Less Traveled
Only a few seconds into From The Heart we see Oliver cutting a decoration for his Valentine, a shorthand for what has clearly become one of the major themes of 2016---the state of Oliver's heart.
Oliver's primary struggles this year have centered on insecurities regarding matters of the heart in a romantic sense, but it's clear there's some issues yet to work out when it comes to his father, Joe. Between some quality time and Papa O'Toole's life in jeopardy, this is a prime opportunity for those wounds---and their relationship---to heal. Besides, how can Oliver say "I love you" to Shane before he can say it to his own father? Interesting to consider, right? |
Lost Without You introduces the concept of close quarters, physical distance and possibly even spiritual closeness/distance. As Norman and Rita take their road trip, it will test their tolerance for uninterrupted time together in a small space, much like being lost in the woods will similarly test the O'Toole men. The veteran seeking his lost love is clearly separated from her physically, preventing a relationship. By comparison, Shane and Oliver's distance through him being lost in the wilderness may very well "make the heart grow fonder." Also, there's the matter of Shane's faith---until she commits to Christ (making her no longer "lost," but "found") that would possibly make her relationship with Oliver tenuous from that perspective, too. Pay close attention to the lessons and messages these kinds of situations will present. No question our observations will become the focus of many forthcoming posts!
Miscellaneous
- That first moment Shane sees Oliver emerging from the woods after he and dad are rescued, I thought it would be kind of funny---and a nice tie to From The Heart, which started the year out--- if, in the midst of all her feelings, Shane punched Oliver in the shoulder before almost crushing him with a hug. It would be a nice, subtle, bookend.
- Shane calling out to God in the middle of the wilderness in surrender for help would be nice to see. There's been something subtle going on with Shane and her faith we've seen glimpses of which I would like to see come to the forefront.
- With Norman and Rita on the road, it would be funny to see the classic "We're lost, should we stop and ask for directions?" thing play out; for the car to break down and they have to improvise; pretty much for a variety of things to go wrong in real-time and see if they can engage each other with love, if they lose their cool, and how they navigate that. I've heard if you can survive a road trip with your significant other---and do so well---then you should probably get married because it's a nearly impossible task! (Haha)
Counting The Minutes,
~C
P.S. After I wrote this post yesterday it was brought to my attention that there is yet ANOTHER description circulating---with even more detail regarding the film. My head is literally about to explode---I can already feel myself wanting to deconstruct Lost Without You and it hasn't even aired! Check it out and come back here to discuss!