At a time where smallpox was rampant and little children fell ill and died mercilessly, Vice Marceaux found something that, perhaps, was just a stretch. At times of sheer senselessness some people need an element in their lives that makes sense. Something that can take seemingly random acts and add a purpose. For many, it’s religion that does this. Perhaps, it’s not always the best answer, but religion can in many ways help people make sense of something that doesn’t. Director Burningham’s utterly engrossing study of Vice Marceaux alludes that perhaps his discovery wasn’t so much a man who discovered the soul, but more of a man who needed to believe there was a soul.

Burningham based the film on Dr. Duncan MacDougall who concluded 21 grams was the mass of the body’s soul, after countless study of dying patients. Burningham’s chronicle of this man’s obsession is an interesting testament of the human mind’s need to clutch onto something that creates an illusion of answers, and the period piece of wonderfully orchestrated with great costumes, and a very good performance by Darin Singleton who is heartbreaking as this man holding onto his work as a form of redemption and clarity. This is a short film that goes beyond its conventions, and Burningham displays brutal talent with a keen eye for detail and emotions.

It looks like a lot of hard work went into the production of what is a film that will provoke thought and debating among those who subscribe to religion, and to those who don't. And a film that inspires thought deserves to be seen. "The Lost Journal" is a gut-wrenching and well directed piece of drama.

• For more information on "The Lost Journal," visit the official website.
• Filmed on a budget of only $10,000.

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