The Ira Holmes International Film Series continues its thought-provoking lineup with “Some Kind of Heaven”, a visually striking and deeply human documentary that peels back the glossy veneer of The Villages, Florida’s massive retirement community.
The screening was hosted in the Ira Holmes Classroom at the College of Central Florida Ocala Campus, drawing a large turnout with film series members and students alike. Attendees were also encouraged to bring donations of business attire to support the CF Clothing Closet, which provides professional clothing to students in need.
Directed by Lance Oppenheim, the 2020 film explores the lives of four residents navigating love, loneliness and personal reinvention in a place marketed as a utopia for seniors.
While The Villages is often portrayed as a carefree paradise, “Some Kind of Heaven” offers a more intimate and sometimes unsettling look at the reality behind the fantasy. The documentary follows married couple Anne and Reggie Kincer, who grapple with Reggie’s spiritual awakening and erratic behavior; Barbara Lochiatto, a widow searching for connection; and Dennis Dean, an aging drifter looking for one last shot at stability. Their stories challenge the notion that retirement is a final destination of joy and leisure, instead presenting it as another complex stage of life, filled with longing, uncertainty and hope.
Oppenheim’s documentary stands out not just for its compelling subjects but for its mesmerizing cinematography, which captures The Villages in a surreal, almost otherworldly light. The pastel-colored homes, synchronized golf carts and perfectly manicured lawns feel like a manufactured dreamscape—one that contrasts sharply with the personal struggles of the film’s subjects. This blend of striking visuals and poignant storytelling makes “Some Kind of Heaven” both a fascinating and haunting cinematic experience.
“Some Kind of Heaven” uses strong visuals to display the emotions of the community and the harsh reality of the stories it conveys. One particularly striking scene is the final zoom-out as Barbara stands alone among a dancing crowd before joining in. This moment represents both hope and isolation, reflecting one of the film’s themes. As Barbara begins to dance, the scene raises the question: Is she embracing her circumstances, or is she succumbing to the loneliness that has defined her retirement?
The film’s inclusion in the Ira Holmes International Film Series aligns with the series’ mission to showcase films that spark conversation and challenge perspectives. Following the screening, attendees had the opportunity to discuss the film’s themes, its depiction of The Villages and how it compares to other portrayals of retirement in the media. The Villages, with its self-contained infrastructure and limited interaction with the outside world, reinforces a sense of isolation that the film’s subjects grapple with, making their personal struggles feel even more moving.
As the film ended, Wendy Adams, director of the series, led an open discussion for guests to share their thoughts and opinions. One attendee strongly criticized Nancy for allowing Dennis to stay with her; despite knowing he was bad for her. This sparked further discussion, with film series member, Nicola Taylor, suggesting that Nancy’s loneliness played a significant role—while she knew Dennis wasn’t good for her, she saw him as a preferable alternative to being alone. Others noted that Dennis took advantage of Nancy for a more comfortable lifestyle, only to leave when he realized he valued his freedom more.
For students, cinephiles and community members alike, “Some Kind of Heaven” offers an honest yet empathetic look at life in one of America’s most famous retirement communities. Whether you come for the striking visuals or the deeply human stories, this is a film that lingers long after the credits roll.
