A filmmaker tries to make sense of her past in the achingly sad 'Blue Heron'

NPR | By Justin Chang

Published April 24, 2026 at 7:20 AM EDT

Sophy Romvari's semi-autobiographical drama touches on her childhood in British Columbia and her family's experience of tragedy. Blue Heron has won numerous prizes at international film festivals.

Justin Chang

Justin Chang is a film critic for the Los Angeles Times and NPR's Fresh Air, and a regular contributor to KPCC's FilmWeek. He previously served as chief film critic and editor of film reviews for Variety.

See stories by Justin Chang

SUSTAIN what matters. BUILD what’s next.

With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.