Alphabet Lane
31 Mar 2026 
Russ Matthews Loneliness may feel like a modern epidemic, but it is far from a new experience.
This aspect of the human condition has existed throughout history—especially for those living and working in isolation. This quiet struggle confronts Anna (Tilda Cobham-Hervey) and Jack (Nicholas Denton) as they leave Sydney behind for a tree change in the Australian countryside. In an attempt to cope with their growing relational distance, they create an imaginary couple for entertainment—until the game begins to spiral beyond their control.
Following a venture into Hollywood romantic comedy with Anyone But You, writer/director James Litchfield returns to the realm of independent Australian cinema. Here, he explores the harsh reality of humanity’s deep need for connection—both within romantic relationships and the broader communities we inhabit. This subtle yet unsettling narrative begins with playful mischief between partners but gradually reveals how such behaviour can become destructive. With each step deeper into the story, the audience is drawn into increasing discomfort, as the emotional consequences of isolation begin to unravel for everyone involved.
Tilda Cobham-Hervey and Nicholas Denton strike a careful balance between the light-hearted beginnings of their characters’ actions and the growing emotional toll it takes on them. Their performances capture both the charm and the disquiet of this descent, grounding the film’s exploration of mental health in something that feels both authentic and confronting. Alphabet Lane becomes a fascinating and unexpected journey into the depths of loneliness and the human longing for connection.
REEL DIALOGUE: Are we alone on this journey called life?
James Litchfield’s story highlights a truth we all recognise—we are created with a desire for connection and a longing to belong to something beyond ourselves. Beneath the surface of this unsettling narrative lies a persistent undercurrent of loneliness. While isolation can be physical, for many it is ultimately a state of mind.
We often look for fulfilment through relationships or even technology, yet these avenues can prove limited in their ability to satisfy our deeper needs. This raises a profound question: are we truly alone? The Bible offers a different perspective—one that reminds us that God is always present. The invitation is simply to turn and acknowledge Him. In both moments of joy and seasons of loneliness, God offers a relationship unlike any other.
Where do you begin? One place to start is with Jesus’ words in Matthew 28:20: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” From there, you may choose to explore the life and teachings of Jesus more fully.
You may come to realise that you were never truly alone—and never need to be again.
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