Halle Berry is gorgeous and heart-breaking as Audrey Burke, a wife struggling to accept the unjust death of her husband, Brian. When Brian Burke (played by David Duchovny), witnesses a man beating up his wife in the street he can not turn a blind eye and steps in to help the injured woman. Tragically, as Brian calls 911, the angry husband pulls a gun and shoots the good Samaritan, before killing his wife and then turning the gun on himself. It is a senseless crime that leaves three people dead, two children without a father and Audrey Burke a frightened and confused young widow.

While planning the funeral, Audrey decides to bury the hatchet with Brian's best friend since childhood, Jerry, who she has not seen or spoken too in many years. Reunited by this life shattering event, Audrey, Jerry and the kids quickly realize that their lives will never be the same again. All of them must face their fears and struggle to accept the changes that must now be made. While Berry's character wants only to escape the hurt and loneliness and to avoid admitting to herself that the love of her life is gone, Jerry, (played by Benicio Del Toro), is tired of escaping from his problems and fears. Seeing what his closest friend had and lost inspires Jerry to start fighting his own battles as he struggles to stop using heroine, find himself a job and start contributing something positive to the beautiful lives he is now fortunate enough to be a part of.

"Things we lost in the fire", is a very simple, very emotional and slow-paced story that deals with extremely difficult life issues such as acceptance and personal strength. These issues are expressed beautifully through the innocent eyes and comprehension of the children, as well as through the ugliness of the selfish and irresponsible behaviour exhibited by the adults in the film. As everyone struggles to face their fears, tempers do flare, lines are crossed, tears are shed, promises are broken and hard truths are realized. It is a wonderful journey of self-discovery, learning and growth with two amazing child actors who will blow you away.

Micah Berry and Alexis Llewellyn are outstanding in this film. They will tug at your heart strings and bring countless smiles to your face. Both are bright new stars who make this serious dramatic material seem like child's play.

However the star that shone the brightest in this movie, by far, was Benicio. This man steals the entire show. He will make you laugh out loud, cringe with fear, and cry in sympathy for him. He is absolutely mesmerizing and a sheer joy to watch. Although the story may start out slow and uneventful, give it time. Once Benicio's character takes centre stage I promise you will not be able to leave your seat...and a few tears are almost a certain guarantee as well.