Scrap Review: Vivian Kerr’s Sibling Drama Will Make You Cheer for a Complex Character

Navigating the complexities of storytelling involving flawed protagonists, particularly female characters, presents a unique challenge. If a character is portrayed with too many flaws or makes excessive mistakes, audiences might quickly deem them unlikable or unsympathetic. In the film Scrap, the lead character, Beth, exemplifies this struggle. She is indeed deeply flawed, prompting moments where viewers might find it hard to connect with her.

However, Vivian Kerr, who serves as the writer and director—and also plays Beth—achieves something noteworthy with her character. Our introduction to Beth occurs as she wakes up in her car, her makeshift home. The ease with which she brushes her teeth and dresses in the confined space indicates a long period of adaptation to this lifestyle. Nonetheless, Beth has kept her circumstances hidden, creating the film’s most compelling conflict.

Scrap Is Anchored By Three Compelling Characters

All Portrayed by Talented Actors

Watch the Trailer

Currently unemployed, Beth drives aimlessly around Los Angeles in search of a fresh start. Her brother, Ben, portrayed by Anthony Rapp from *Star Trek: Discovery*, is caring for her daughter, Birdy (Julianna Layne), alongside his wife, Stacy (Lana Parrilla from *Once Upon a Time*). They mistakenly believe Beth is attending a work conference, and this deception reveals Beth’s tendency to lie—whether about her whereabouts or fabricating a façade of a busy professional while trying to secure job interviews. Kerr cleverly incorporates these themes subtly, enhancing the narrative’s depth.

The central relationship between Ben and Beth acts as the emotional core of *Scrap*. Kerr masterfully captures the nuances of their dysfunctional sibling dynamic. Tensions escalate further when Beth moves in with Ben and Stacy. While Ben reluctantly accepts her presence, Stacy’s frustration is palpable. Complicating matters is the couple’s struggle with IVF, which makes Beth’s perceived neglect of her own daughter all the more irksome. This subplot adds layers to Stacy’s character, transitioning her from a potentially one-dimensional role into a figure filled with depth and emotional conflict. Parrilla’s portrayal of Stacy’s heartbreaking frustration is nuanced and powerful, culminating in a scene that allows for genuine communication between her and Beth.

As the narrative unfolds, the juxtaposition of Ben’s eagerness to understand Beth against her reluctance to reveal her struggles creates a tumultuous relationship characterized by moments of playful banter and heavy silence. This delicate balance of emotions is challenging to achieve, but Kerr writes the relationship with a realism that is enhanced by her palpable chemistry with Rapp, who effectively conveys Ben’s wariness.

Scrap Doesn’t Shy Away From Beth’s Flaws

It’s A Testament To Kerr’s Craftsmanship That We Remain Invested in Her Journey

Vivian Kerr rollerblading with her eyes closed and arms out in Scrap

Though Beth genuinely cares for her daughter and is actively seeking employment, her reluctance to abandon certain comforts and her stubborn refusal to pursue even a basic retail job paint a fuller picture of her character and the challenges she has faced. This self-centered nature stands in stark contrast to Ben’s generosity and Stacy’s aspirations of motherhood, which could easily lead viewers to view her with disdain.

Nonetheless, my investment in Beth’s journey remained unwavering. Kerr skillfully integrates Beth’s humanity, highlighting that she is just as flawed as anyone else. Her immature tendencies do not overshadow her emotional core. While some of the more grueling realities of homelessness are barely touched upon, and the film’s conclusion feels somewhat neat, the engaging narrative invites viewers along for an impactful ride that resonates well beyond the credits.

*Scrap* is now available for digital download. The film is 105 minutes in length and currently holds no rating.

Source & Images