I saw this tonight for the Utah Film Festival and it'll take some time to process what I've seen. I may add more later. This is a gorgeous film with fantastic cinematography, acting, storyline and oh THAT SCORE. More than anything though it touched me deeply in ways I thought it wouldn't. The world is full of such negativity these days and when people are depressed, they push others, even their loved ones, away. But what would happen if we got the call to do the opposite? What would happen if we took the time to leave positive reviews instead of negative ones? What if our small acts of kindness made the biggest difference in people's lives? This one really made me think and probably will for some time.
39 Reviews
Family movie, message of hope
haileewhitlock-5870927 May 2022
This movie is a beacon of hope and encouragement that is much needed in our world right now. The impact it had on me and my family is indescribable. We left the theater feeling enlightened with a new energy to life. To any of those out there feeling alone, different, helpless, confused, or even just want a movie you can take the whole family to without wondering what will pop up on the screen or be said, this is the perfect movie. Such an inspiration for change!
Beautiful film
kimtulin29 May 2022
Watching the characters in this film as they are negatively affected by one person who then finds it within himself and changes.... the positive affect he then had on everyone around him is exactly what needs to be heard right now. My teenager (and frankly anyone who is having a hard time with the challenges life brings) was so moved by the little, anonymous acts of someone telling her that she is important made all the difference in the world to her! I hope this film can continue to be seen and touch lives. Well done. Highly recommend!
Bridging reality with fantasy
Fantasymoviefanatic8 January 2022
This film is well executed. The characters do a wonderful job of drawing you in to cultivate a sense of connection. I cherish storylines that have deep meaning and films that surprise me within the storyline, and the Rite of the Shaman effortlessly ticks both boxes. This is a movie with a powerful message that is creatively woven into elements of fantasy.
please get this in schools now
midgepierre2 June 2022
Let's just start with how this movie was made. After seeing the story on fox 13 my heart melted with why it was made. A mother creating a movie for her son that beat cancer. But what was born through this movie is an important message that is not pushy or in your face or crammed down your throat. It tugged directly at my heart and i could relate with the main character so much who by the way was played by the directors son who beat cancer. This message is so important now coming at a time when high school kids are lost and after the shooting. Please get this in all schools RIGHT NOW before more people get hurt.
Beautiful Movie
elliotwoodridge28 May 2022
This movie has a wonderful, if sometimes simplistic, story, that is well worth seeing on the big screen. Tyrell Oberle shines as young Kai, a high school student, immersing himself in the life and wonder of nature, but struggling to manage daily life in a world that doesn't understand him and dealing with his mother's trial with cancer. The reality of his presence on the screen, draws the viewer in, though he barely speaks throughout the film.
The cinematography is gorgeous, from shots of the mountainous countryside to careful scenes of animals, to dramatic shots of all the characters. The score is beautiful, at times haunting and at times earthy and lighthearted,.
There were a few issues that may distract the casual viewer, including sound issues: sometimes the music, though lovely, was overpowering, and sometimes there were audio glitches that sounded like an editor did the best they could with inferior material. A couple of special effects looked amateurish and quickly reminded me that I was watching a low-budget local indie film. A few of the acting performances missed the mark, but there were several who stood out as remarkable talents, including James Morris as Mr. Browning, Kim Stone as Wendy, and Lauren Holdt as Aspen, among others.
What really drives the heart of this story is the central message that what we put out in the world matters. People in pain, spread that pain to others, or as the saying goes, "Hurt people hurt people." On the flip side, the love we give makes a real difference. It comes across simply and clearly--the pain is heart-wrenching, and the kindness is exhilarating. This alone gives the film amazing power and makes it well worth the watch. As someone who has gotten tired of big blockbuster action movies dominating the big screen, it was a real treat watching an independent film with soul, with a real message to send, and made with an artistry and vision that seems to be sorely lacking in the film corporatocracy. Go see this film.
The cinematography is gorgeous, from shots of the mountainous countryside to careful scenes of animals, to dramatic shots of all the characters. The score is beautiful, at times haunting and at times earthy and lighthearted,.
There were a few issues that may distract the casual viewer, including sound issues: sometimes the music, though lovely, was overpowering, and sometimes there were audio glitches that sounded like an editor did the best they could with inferior material. A couple of special effects looked amateurish and quickly reminded me that I was watching a low-budget local indie film. A few of the acting performances missed the mark, but there were several who stood out as remarkable talents, including James Morris as Mr. Browning, Kim Stone as Wendy, and Lauren Holdt as Aspen, among others.
What really drives the heart of this story is the central message that what we put out in the world matters. People in pain, spread that pain to others, or as the saying goes, "Hurt people hurt people." On the flip side, the love we give makes a real difference. It comes across simply and clearly--the pain is heart-wrenching, and the kindness is exhilarating. This alone gives the film amazing power and makes it well worth the watch. As someone who has gotten tired of big blockbuster action movies dominating the big screen, it was a real treat watching an independent film with soul, with a real message to send, and made with an artistry and vision that seems to be sorely lacking in the film corporatocracy. Go see this film.
A drama but also fantasy that has the Feels
SallyMason-8111 January 2022
I saw this at Utah Film Awards and wasn't quite sure what to expect but it immediately sucked me in with the visuals and music. This is the kind of movie that we need more of. Too many movies these days are so fast and action packed just for the sake of being that way and this is a movie that you want to savor for it's unique visuals and it's a beautiful feast for the eyes. I found myself getting tearful more than once because it reminded me of my little brother who was bullied and invisible in school. This one I recommend and I will be wanting to buy this once it's out.
A surprising one that will go down in history
thesbiancrow29 May 2022
Warning: Spoilers
My girlfriend and I checked this movie out on a whim when Top Gun was sold out. I went in with very little expectations since I'd never heard of it before. I was expecting some wild fantasy but what I got instead was probably the most valuable life lessons I can think of to date. The actors all did really well. The music was chilling, and by the end of the movie my girlfriend and I were both sobbing. I promise if you can get pass the first half which is a little triggering because he spirals into depression. After the second half you will leave the theater with your jaw on the floor. Really happy we stumbled across this movie which should be shown to everyone in the country. You are loved!
My mom made me do it but
graywinterjanuary30 May 2022
I thought this was going to be some sappy religious movie or something. My mom insisted that I go see it with her. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. Like beyond surprised surprised. Thank you for not making mental health a stigma. It is not shameful and is very real . This movie shows raw how it is but also that you're not alone and there is hope. I'll be taking my friends to see this.
Beautiful movie
cmalerie9 February 2022
The cinematography was amazing and the lighting was great and the mood was fantastic. I felt all of the emotions. Their facial expressions conveyed their emotions phenomenally. Amazing movie it was so touching. The scenes were absolutely gorgeous as well.
This film is a must see film!!
adamantpress27 May 2022
The story of Kai is one that resonated with me. Especially after the school shootings that have been happening around the country.
This film has you in your feelings but the soundtrack and graphics keep you optimistic. Very well done.
It's a film that the whole family will leave feeling uplifted and feeling good.
Go see this film!!! It will change your life!!!
Support Independent Film!!!
This film has you in your feelings but the soundtrack and graphics keep you optimistic. Very well done.
It's a film that the whole family will leave feeling uplifted and feeling good.
Go see this film!!! It will change your life!!!
Support Independent Film!!!
Emotionally uplifting during hard times
Marilynlola4329 May 2022
Warning: Spoilers
I am not a critic, but studied film making in New York City two years ago. What i found in seeing this was the framing and shots and the editing. I know what that takes and was impressed with the work of the director and the videographers who were in sync with the cast and crew.
I found myself emotionally uplifted with the story. I had read Dr. Farmer's dissertation that was the inspiration for this film. This story came from her soul...Alicia's passion to change others' hearts and minds to accept the possibility of positive ends was from a loving and non stoppable place in her heart.
I loved seeing this young man who survived the cancer and a hit and run accident because this fine director and loving mother brought out the authenticity of her son's trauma.
I found myself emotionally uplifted with the story. I had read Dr. Farmer's dissertation that was the inspiration for this film. This story came from her soul...Alicia's passion to change others' hearts and minds to accept the possibility of positive ends was from a loving and non stoppable place in her heart.
I loved seeing this young man who survived the cancer and a hit and run accident because this fine director and loving mother brought out the authenticity of her son's trauma.
Powerful and uplifting
albertwise16 January 2022
This story is one that needs to be told in today's age of online bullying and hatred. The idea that kindness and mutual support really can lift us out of the darkness and self doubt is encouraging. May many lives be as touched as mine has!
Top notch acting and Message
PitchMonkey97348 January 2022
I watched the film at the Utah film festival tonight. They really had a great message and the cinematography was outstanding. The acting was top notch for an indie film. With that said the acting was above par and each actor and actress should be proud what they accomplished on this film.
An Uplifting, Unique Experience
sohncompositions27 May 2022
Rite of the Shaman takes place in the modern world yet has elements of fantasy that help drive the story forward. I really enjoyed the message and had some great, touching moments. This movie is for anyone that needs a little change from the typical movie.
Magical
teri_weiss14 January 2022
I had the honor and privilege to work on this project and had no idea how it would turn out after the editing and adding music. At the moment all I can say is...WOW! I read the story/script, heard and tried to understand the theme during the days I worked on set. However, after watching this... I get it.
First off, the editing (to me, a total novice) was beyond brilliant. Hours upon hours of film was used to create what I watched. The editing made the movie. I really don't have words to really explain how I felt watching as scene by scene Kai worked through all he was feeling.
The Shaman scene had chills running rampant and tears streaming from my eyes; but they were good tears and chills. I knew the scene would be there but didn't have a clue how it would work. The symbolism of what Kai's ancestors meant to him was what got me. I don't consider myself very spiritual but I felt it.
I loved the Celtic music and how it interspersed throughout the film to help tell the story of Kai's happy life diving into despair as he takes care of his cancer-ridden mother to being bullied at school. At times the music was very uplifting and filled my soul with peace; at others, sadness and pain.
The cinematography was magical. I watched how each scene was filmed and wondered how it would look. Now I know. Carson's use of the slow-motion action with the fire dance scene and the ending scene is, to me, genius. I just love how everything came together to create magic on the screen.
I would LOVE to see this on the big screen because I know it will have a huge impact on the audience and it deserves the big screen to allow the magic flow.
First off, the editing (to me, a total novice) was beyond brilliant. Hours upon hours of film was used to create what I watched. The editing made the movie. I really don't have words to really explain how I felt watching as scene by scene Kai worked through all he was feeling.
The Shaman scene had chills running rampant and tears streaming from my eyes; but they were good tears and chills. I knew the scene would be there but didn't have a clue how it would work. The symbolism of what Kai's ancestors meant to him was what got me. I don't consider myself very spiritual but I felt it.
I loved the Celtic music and how it interspersed throughout the film to help tell the story of Kai's happy life diving into despair as he takes care of his cancer-ridden mother to being bullied at school. At times the music was very uplifting and filled my soul with peace; at others, sadness and pain.
The cinematography was magical. I watched how each scene was filmed and wondered how it would look. Now I know. Carson's use of the slow-motion action with the fire dance scene and the ending scene is, to me, genius. I just love how everything came together to create magic on the screen.
I would LOVE to see this on the big screen because I know it will have a huge impact on the audience and it deserves the big screen to allow the magic flow.
Great Movie
nuduze28 May 2022
This movie is very touching and relatable in many ways. It talks about the struggles every child has gone through at least once in their life and the film teaches people how to get over the struggles. This movie is very inspiring to those who feel like they are never enough or feel under qualified in life. In tough times such as right now, all we can do to better ourselves is to not only love yourself but to love those around you and to strive to be supportive to people who need help.
One of the most emotional movies I've seen
Rattlingheart678 January 2022
I was lucky enough to have seen this at the utah film festival. It was one of the most emotional and heart wrenching films ever. The acting was amazing on everyone's part. And the music was absolutely fantastic, you could feel every emotion that the characters were feeling, and the music just added to it. I highly recommend watching this film. Just make sure to have some tissues on hand.
Tear Jerking, Heart Glowing.
angelaoberle15 January 2022
From the moment the film began, I was immediately enveloped.. completely 'til the very end. And I couldn't get enough. What I enjoyed most was that I could feel each emotion portrayed by each character, as if I was there. Especially Kai. I felt I could relate to some measure, to each emotion. Such a unique, and beautiful experience. Difficult to put into words. You MUST see this film for yourself! I can't wait to watch and experience it again and again, and to share this, and similar upcoming films with my loved ones. 💞❤
Emotionally moving, Heartfelt and Magical
djwhitlock28 May 2022
This movie accompanied by an amazing score was so emotionally moving. The movie stirred feelings inside that I haven't felt in a long time, since the time of my mother's passing. It is amazing how the film communicates the darkness felt inside and how it can overcome you if you let it, but you can find strength in relying on others and the teachings of our loved ones.
I connected with the movie in such a way that I felt I was Kai for just a moment and knew that in this life you can grow through the greatest struggles and find your voice.
I connected with the movie in such a way that I felt I was Kai for just a moment and knew that in this life you can grow through the greatest struggles and find your voice.
Never judge a book my it's cover
peternguyen-6263128 May 2022
This movie was well filmed and represented. In life, we can be quick to judge or jump to conclusions without finding a reason or a solution. I loved how well the film captures Kai goes through so much adversity and obstacles and In the end will find a way to deal with his adversity and make a difference. The film was very touching and I would definitely see it again. 10/10 would recommend!
Perfectly Imperfect
cdhardy-4322531 May 2022
To my knowledge "Rite of the Shaman" is the sophomore feature film from the young independent Zepstone Media. I review it with that lens, not in comparison to big-budget productions. Think of it like a local band that's so good it starts getting gigs in venues bigger and more prestigious than local pubs.
Sure, the film has flaws. Sometimes the music overpowers the dialogue. In one scene where the audience views a computer conversation, the text is framed too far to the right and left of screen, making it difficult to read. The bullying scenes could have been more dramatic. The lead character's climatic transformation is powerful, but it left me starving for information about the beings who catalyzed it. (Please, please, please make a sequel!)
Emphatically, to dwell on "Rite's" relatively few technical flaws is absurdly shallow.
For one, this ORIGINAL film is a refreshing reprieve from Hollywood's incessant obsession with vampires, Vikings, zombies and mediocre remakes of great films. Zepstone got more right than wrong in its technically execution.
Most importantly, "Rite's" message brings fresh hope at a time when the news and social media are full of anger, fear and hatred. Any viewer; regardless of age, economic status, religion, politics, or social passion; who looks for the similarities rather than the differences; will be moved to tears and inspired to become the change they want to see.
Yeah, just go see it. It's that important.
Sure, the film has flaws. Sometimes the music overpowers the dialogue. In one scene where the audience views a computer conversation, the text is framed too far to the right and left of screen, making it difficult to read. The bullying scenes could have been more dramatic. The lead character's climatic transformation is powerful, but it left me starving for information about the beings who catalyzed it. (Please, please, please make a sequel!)
Emphatically, to dwell on "Rite's" relatively few technical flaws is absurdly shallow.
For one, this ORIGINAL film is a refreshing reprieve from Hollywood's incessant obsession with vampires, Vikings, zombies and mediocre remakes of great films. Zepstone got more right than wrong in its technically execution.
Most importantly, "Rite's" message brings fresh hope at a time when the news and social media are full of anger, fear and hatred. Any viewer; regardless of age, economic status, religion, politics, or social passion; who looks for the similarities rather than the differences; will be moved to tears and inspired to become the change they want to see.
Yeah, just go see it. It's that important.
Melted my mama heart!
mimijessiejones18 December 2022
My friend made me watch this I'm normally not a fan of dramas! I didn't know what to expect but this pleasantly by surprise! Then I found out it was made by a mother and son became he beat cancer! The kid who beat cancer plays the lead! It was heartbreaking to see Mr Kai try to deal with all the rude people at school and at home dealing with his sick mother! I wasn't sure where it was going but by the middle of the movie I was cheering on Mr Kai! Go forth Mr. Kai and spread love and kindness around the world! You touched my heart and I hope there with be rite of the Shaman part two! Mr Kai has stolen this mama heart!
come a long way and going a long way
yayvunay27 May 2022
Cinematc masterpiece
Mr_Crowley9917 January 2022
The editing, phenomenal. The lighting, immaculate. The mood, the vibes, everything just sends chills down your spine. You can really feel with the characters. The way the emotions are portrayed through the lighting, the facial expressions, the atmosphere, its all just fantastic.
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