22 reviews
"Some places change things some days, some people... they can put a mark on you that won't ever wash off."
"The river thief" managed to leave me speechless. And this merely by the denouement. The run-up was anything but interesting. It shows the life of Diz (Joel Courtney) as he leads it now. A carefree existence in which he steals anything he deems necessary, without feeling bad about it. He has no sense of values. Diz is a street boy whose mother abandoned him and left him behind in an alley . And now he's looking for his natural father as he follows the banks of the Snake River. How long he has been doing this, isn't really made clear. And the motive to seek his father is also hazy. His vagabond existence is halted when he meets Selah (Raleigh Cain). She's a waitress in a kind of burger joint where she gets to know the habits of Diz. Namely not paying for the consumed burgers. Selah's grandfather Marty (Tommy Cash. Yep, brother of the famous Johnny Cash) tries to teach the boy some life lessons and instead of giving him a scolding, he invites Diz for a steak night.
Clearly grandfather Marty is a true religious person. Before you know it, all sorts of religious philosophies are exposed. About gifts and that you shouldn't take life for granted. And also about those priceless things in life such as your heartbeat and your senses. When Diz succeeds in stealing a considerable amount of drug money in a very simplistic way, this is the beginning of a naive attempt to grow a friendship between him and Selah. One thing struck me. How the egocentric Diz undergoes a metamorphosis in such a short time. From one moment to the next he changes from being an indifferent person into someone who appreciates values such as forgiveness and repentance. Probably for the first time in his life he's facing a sense of guilt. He tries to apologize by flooding Selah with expensive gifts, which in turn creates a twofold problem. On the one hand, Selah doesn't want this and she makes this absolutely clear. Secondly, the criminals could easily trace Diz because of this outrageous behavior. As a result Marty and Selah are also placed in a vulnerable position.
Despite the limited budget, "The river thief" is blessed (sorry) with some brilliant impressions of the winding Snake River and other static nature scenes. In short, when looking at the technical side, it all looks professional enough. In terms of acting, it wasn't too bad. Joel Courtney acts natural and convinces as the casual and spry Diz. Raleigh Cain is as passionate in her acting as Selah is in person, but sometimes it felt rather drab. And Tommy Cash is the oracle of the film. Nothing more nothing less. These are certainly not top performances, but they are at least better than those of the two gangsters Saul (Paul Johansson) and Clyde (Bas Rutten). And I don't blame the actors themselves, but rather the script. It portrays these two figures in a fairly implausible and dumb way.
Unfortunately, the content of this film is similar to the way in which the Snake River runs. Slowly it proceeds without any significant, exciting or tense moment. I read some articles where they labeled this as a "Christian movie". Well for me it didn't feel like a Christian movie at all. Besides, each film can be interpreted in such a way that people say there's some kind of religious message hiding in it. Marty being a moralist, who tries to learn Diz certain life values, doesn't make this a Christian movie suddenly. But I can tell you without hesitation, the surprising denouement totally blew me away. Not because of its violent nature, but mainly because I didn't see this one coming. So, although there are a few bombastic topics about gratitude, forgiveness and self-sacrifice, it all felt rather contrived and banal to me. And even if there would be a deeper meaning hiding somewhere in this film, I guess it completely eluded me. Most likely there'll be some philosophizing about this movie in theological circles. Unfortunately my intelligence falls short when talking about spirituality. Thank God.
More reviews here : http://bit.ly/1KIdQMT
"The river thief" managed to leave me speechless. And this merely by the denouement. The run-up was anything but interesting. It shows the life of Diz (Joel Courtney) as he leads it now. A carefree existence in which he steals anything he deems necessary, without feeling bad about it. He has no sense of values. Diz is a street boy whose mother abandoned him and left him behind in an alley . And now he's looking for his natural father as he follows the banks of the Snake River. How long he has been doing this, isn't really made clear. And the motive to seek his father is also hazy. His vagabond existence is halted when he meets Selah (Raleigh Cain). She's a waitress in a kind of burger joint where she gets to know the habits of Diz. Namely not paying for the consumed burgers. Selah's grandfather Marty (Tommy Cash. Yep, brother of the famous Johnny Cash) tries to teach the boy some life lessons and instead of giving him a scolding, he invites Diz for a steak night.
Clearly grandfather Marty is a true religious person. Before you know it, all sorts of religious philosophies are exposed. About gifts and that you shouldn't take life for granted. And also about those priceless things in life such as your heartbeat and your senses. When Diz succeeds in stealing a considerable amount of drug money in a very simplistic way, this is the beginning of a naive attempt to grow a friendship between him and Selah. One thing struck me. How the egocentric Diz undergoes a metamorphosis in such a short time. From one moment to the next he changes from being an indifferent person into someone who appreciates values such as forgiveness and repentance. Probably for the first time in his life he's facing a sense of guilt. He tries to apologize by flooding Selah with expensive gifts, which in turn creates a twofold problem. On the one hand, Selah doesn't want this and she makes this absolutely clear. Secondly, the criminals could easily trace Diz because of this outrageous behavior. As a result Marty and Selah are also placed in a vulnerable position.
Despite the limited budget, "The river thief" is blessed (sorry) with some brilliant impressions of the winding Snake River and other static nature scenes. In short, when looking at the technical side, it all looks professional enough. In terms of acting, it wasn't too bad. Joel Courtney acts natural and convinces as the casual and spry Diz. Raleigh Cain is as passionate in her acting as Selah is in person, but sometimes it felt rather drab. And Tommy Cash is the oracle of the film. Nothing more nothing less. These are certainly not top performances, but they are at least better than those of the two gangsters Saul (Paul Johansson) and Clyde (Bas Rutten). And I don't blame the actors themselves, but rather the script. It portrays these two figures in a fairly implausible and dumb way.
Unfortunately, the content of this film is similar to the way in which the Snake River runs. Slowly it proceeds without any significant, exciting or tense moment. I read some articles where they labeled this as a "Christian movie". Well for me it didn't feel like a Christian movie at all. Besides, each film can be interpreted in such a way that people say there's some kind of religious message hiding in it. Marty being a moralist, who tries to learn Diz certain life values, doesn't make this a Christian movie suddenly. But I can tell you without hesitation, the surprising denouement totally blew me away. Not because of its violent nature, but mainly because I didn't see this one coming. So, although there are a few bombastic topics about gratitude, forgiveness and self-sacrifice, it all felt rather contrived and banal to me. And even if there would be a deeper meaning hiding somewhere in this film, I guess it completely eluded me. Most likely there'll be some philosophizing about this movie in theological circles. Unfortunately my intelligence falls short when talking about spirituality. Thank God.
More reviews here : http://bit.ly/1KIdQMT
- peterp-450-298716
- Feb 25, 2017
- Permalink
- ericalynnkessler
- Feb 9, 2017
- Permalink
It was not bad when viewed as a Sunday matinee with my YA nephew and niece. Bas Rutten was a great villain as always and overall it was pretty competent acting on display. I liked the soundtrack as well. Its worth a view if it just happens to show up on your tv screen as long as you don't go into expecting anything else other than a decent Hallmark family feature.
I sorta hate most movies now days. But Jesus Christ, The River Thief sucks. Why doesn't anyone even try to make good movies anymore? I watched the Oscars last night and kinda just wanted to beat up all those talent-less dickholes. Hero-worship stupidity at its best. Anyways, this movie sucked for a lot of reasons, but mostly I hate everything about the film industry.
- jacobthemcbride
- Feb 27, 2017
- Permalink
I found this film because I have enjoyed Wilson's novels. Each of his novels features a full, rich, earthy depiction of some town or place in the United States. When I read these books I feel these places and when watching this film, I could feel the town, the river, and the regular people who lived there.
The actors were fine, but a couple of performances were weak. Probably, the acting was the weakest component of the film.
The cinematography was a high point. I think this is where that earthy, tangible feeling for the river town mostly came from.
The music was refreshing and accomplished its purpose. I always enjoy a movie that departs from the standard orchestral score.
I thought the writing was mostly good and the dialog felt natural to me. The story is a good one and heads to places and touches themes that you aren't expecting and in a way that is touching and quite real to me. Some viewers and reviewers may see one character or another as unrealistic, but sometimes that's because you've never met someone like that. To me, the characters are for real. Most of them could easily be someone I know.
I enjoyed this feature debut from writer/producer N. D. Wilson and I find myself looking forward to what he has coming next.
The actors were fine, but a couple of performances were weak. Probably, the acting was the weakest component of the film.
The cinematography was a high point. I think this is where that earthy, tangible feeling for the river town mostly came from.
The music was refreshing and accomplished its purpose. I always enjoy a movie that departs from the standard orchestral score.
I thought the writing was mostly good and the dialog felt natural to me. The story is a good one and heads to places and touches themes that you aren't expecting and in a way that is touching and quite real to me. Some viewers and reviewers may see one character or another as unrealistic, but sometimes that's because you've never met someone like that. To me, the characters are for real. Most of them could easily be someone I know.
I enjoyed this feature debut from writer/producer N. D. Wilson and I find myself looking forward to what he has coming next.
"The River Thief" is unlike any Christian film I have seen. Most Christian films are dishonest, portraying evil in a convenient caricature and clothing good in an unsoiled garment with Bible verses cross-stitched all over. One usually leaves such movies feeling as though he has just witnessed a conflict between angels and demons. But the "The River Thief" is about a conflict between humans.
Diz (Joel Courtney) is an eminently relatable character, hard on the outside but soft on the inside, self-centered but honest. Selah (Raleigh Cain) is proof that godly women need not wear halos and glow in the dark. The chemistry between the two is palpable and genuine. Marty (Tommy Cash) is the soft-spoken but frank grandpa that everyone secretly wishes he had.
The plot is masterful in that it teaches lessons but does so by telling a story. There are multiple lessons--lessons on manhood and womanhood, fatherhood and childhood, courage and faithfulness, forgiveness and thanksgiving. But they are not preached to the audience as to a group of eight-year-olds. In fact, they are often left unspoken. The film is first and foremost a story. Only the one with eyes to see and ears to hear will catch the lessons (along with most of the Bible references). Still, the primary message is plain even to the most disinterested of viewers.
The real showcase of the film is the ending. It is unlike any other ending to a Christian film I have seen, and it is so very satisfying, not because it leaves one with fuzzy feelings inside but precisely because it doesn't. It does what every Christian film ought to do. It crucifies you. And when the credits roll one can begin to hear, ever so faintly, the echo of an empty grave.
The film also showcases breathtaking cinematography. The only complaints I have is that some of the acting, particularly of the extras, is forced and unnatural at times. In two or three places the editing is also a bit choppy. Still, the strengths of the film far outweigh the weaknesses. It is also worth mentioning that the evil in the film is quite graphic at times (guns and blood), so it may not be suitable for young audiences, at least not without parental supervision.
Diz (Joel Courtney) is an eminently relatable character, hard on the outside but soft on the inside, self-centered but honest. Selah (Raleigh Cain) is proof that godly women need not wear halos and glow in the dark. The chemistry between the two is palpable and genuine. Marty (Tommy Cash) is the soft-spoken but frank grandpa that everyone secretly wishes he had.
The plot is masterful in that it teaches lessons but does so by telling a story. There are multiple lessons--lessons on manhood and womanhood, fatherhood and childhood, courage and faithfulness, forgiveness and thanksgiving. But they are not preached to the audience as to a group of eight-year-olds. In fact, they are often left unspoken. The film is first and foremost a story. Only the one with eyes to see and ears to hear will catch the lessons (along with most of the Bible references). Still, the primary message is plain even to the most disinterested of viewers.
The real showcase of the film is the ending. It is unlike any other ending to a Christian film I have seen, and it is so very satisfying, not because it leaves one with fuzzy feelings inside but precisely because it doesn't. It does what every Christian film ought to do. It crucifies you. And when the credits roll one can begin to hear, ever so faintly, the echo of an empty grave.
The film also showcases breathtaking cinematography. The only complaints I have is that some of the acting, particularly of the extras, is forced and unnatural at times. In two or three places the editing is also a bit choppy. Still, the strengths of the film far outweigh the weaknesses. It is also worth mentioning that the evil in the film is quite graphic at times (guns and blood), so it may not be suitable for young audiences, at least not without parental supervision.
- dcalmartin
- Dec 25, 2016
- Permalink
This film was simple, yet creative, and quite well done. Wilson's style was, as in everything he does, very distinctive and pleasing. I enjoy the way he makes each story (whether it be book or film) have an individual and interesting cultural setting. The characters were properly developed and interesting, especially taking into consideration the slightly shorter than average length of the film. The twist ending actually surprised me quite a bit and that is impressive, as I (apparently wrongly) assumed I was familiar enough with the director's style to not let something like that slip up on me.
There were a few things that were a bit rough around the edges, but overall I was pleased with this film and would likely watch it again. There is clearly has a talent for filmography here, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to quality, Mr. Wilson. I hope to see more films of yours in the future.
There were a few things that were a bit rough around the edges, but overall I was pleased with this film and would likely watch it again. There is clearly has a talent for filmography here, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to quality, Mr. Wilson. I hope to see more films of yours in the future.
- lebeaubarnes
- Jan 16, 2017
- Permalink
The story takes place in an ordinary small town surrounded by extraordinary riverside country. The characters are down-to-earth. Some may consider the grandpa to be the least realistic, but he actually reminded me of someone I know. (Actually, I've known a few old people throughout my life who knew how to love through their straightforwardness.)
But this movie is more than entertainment. Listen to the end and the message should be inescapable, even for those who generally turn their brains off when staring at a screen.
Ever look inside an uncovered electrical panel? Looks ho-hum, but dare to meddle and - zzzzz-ow!
I dare you to watch this film.
But this movie is more than entertainment. Listen to the end and the message should be inescapable, even for those who generally turn their brains off when staring at a screen.
Ever look inside an uncovered electrical panel? Looks ho-hum, but dare to meddle and - zzzzz-ow!
I dare you to watch this film.
- mrauch819-172-590315
- Jan 13, 2017
- Permalink
"The River Thief" has a beautiful message portrayed in a powerful way. The first feature film written and directed by bestselling author N.D. Wilson, "The River Thief" is produced with excellence. The cinematography is gorgeous. The acting is strong and believable, and the characters have a depth that entices one to care about what happens to them.
Parents should know this film could be rated PG-13, as it contains a few scenes of graphic violence and some mild profanity. The teens and adults in our family give "The River Thief" two thumbs up, and hope N.D. Wilson will create many more films in the future!
Parents should know this film could be rated PG-13, as it contains a few scenes of graphic violence and some mild profanity. The teens and adults in our family give "The River Thief" two thumbs up, and hope N.D. Wilson will create many more films in the future!
If you're familiar with N.D. Wilson's children's novels, you know you're in for a treat with The River Thief, his first feature film.
This film breaks from the typical Christian film by telling a good story first and foremost. A lost, father-hungry boy discovering true love. Not the sappy, romantic love of your typical Hollywood flick (this girl wouldn't have any of that), but rather the kind of love that creates a longing to live or die for someone else (something new for Diz).
A wonderful family film, although there are some rough scenes. My 7-year-old son was spellbound, and somewhat affected by the rough parts. Yet this is the kind of story that is healthy. The emotion, drama, and violence of this *good* story are like emotional boot camp; it allows a young boy or girl to experience these emotions of grief and fear along with the positive life lesson that a good story provides.
As a resident of the Northwest where this was shot, I also appreciated the cinematography, which was outstanding! Beautiful aerial views in particular. I highly recommend The River Thief!
This film breaks from the typical Christian film by telling a good story first and foremost. A lost, father-hungry boy discovering true love. Not the sappy, romantic love of your typical Hollywood flick (this girl wouldn't have any of that), but rather the kind of love that creates a longing to live or die for someone else (something new for Diz).
A wonderful family film, although there are some rough scenes. My 7-year-old son was spellbound, and somewhat affected by the rough parts. Yet this is the kind of story that is healthy. The emotion, drama, and violence of this *good* story are like emotional boot camp; it allows a young boy or girl to experience these emotions of grief and fear along with the positive life lesson that a good story provides.
As a resident of the Northwest where this was shot, I also appreciated the cinematography, which was outstanding! Beautiful aerial views in particular. I highly recommend The River Thief!
- Daniel-75-857845
- Oct 13, 2016
- Permalink
All-around fun blend of drama / action / family genres. The most rewarding part is that ND Wilson took some gutsy risks with steering clear of the clichés for this kind of Christian film. (I can't say what without spoiling.) This gutsy-ness paid off across the board. As such the movie feels fresh without trying to be obnoxiously "original." Acting was solid for the most part. A couple were noticeably amateurs, but the headliners were really top class. Cain was especially good, and a really great female lead. Script and camera work are really topnotch, and Hells Canyon / Snake & Clearwater Rivers are staggeringly beautiful.
- brian-d-kohl
- Oct 13, 2016
- Permalink
Fantastic story about mercy. There are many examples in this movie of the unconditional love God shows us. One thing I love about the movie is the fact that the main character is not "mischievously lovable". He is a stubborn brat who is not really pitiable. The watcher is not predisposed to like him in any way. It's a bit jarring when you realize that we are exactly like the river thief: taking what does not belong to us, and turning our nose up at any gift. The exact way he resents mercy, we do as well. An incredible way to illustrate our brokenness, and the unconditional love of Christ.
The River Thief is a family movie, especially suited to teenagers and young adults, written and produced by N. D. Wilson, most known for his young adult fiction and children's literature. This was his first film. Wilson has deep Christian convictions, and this plays out in The River Thief. Christian themes are subtle most the way through the movie. With that said, one expects a certain kind of film, and it is in light of this that the film should be reviewed fairly.
Very briefly, the film starts off with a series of criminal acts by the river thief, Diz, a delinquent adolescent, apparently with a troubled past. He finds himself a reluctant friend, Raleigh, and has brief interactions with her grandfather, Marty, both of whom challenge the thief's criminal behavior and attitude on life. The main themes of the film are the gift of life and forgiveness, not to mention the consequences of one's actions. The consequences of the thief's actions ultimately lead to abduction and death, including in the end his own death.
The film is not without weakness. Firstly, I felt the thievery of the main character, Diz, in the opening scenes were overdone and could have been more subtle, it was also utterly senseless and thus unconvincing. Secondly, the characters were somewhat underdeveloped, and the plot might have benefited from refinement, that is, it felt 'clunky' at times. Lastly, I have a problem with Wilson having a kid running about with a fire arm. The same can be said of his recent book, Outlaws of Time: The Legend of Sam Miracle (which despite this, is a wonderful literary work). Perhaps this is an American thing?
Nevertheless, the film seems to have more strengths than weaknesses. Firstly, the setting is an arid landscape and is visually quite stunning, together with a small American town and its typical architecture. All of this is captured quite beautifully by great cinematography. Secondly, the actions in the firm are exaggerated, and this becomes rather creative and fun at times. The evil and violence on the other hand is subtle which allows for vivid imagination, at least until one of the last scenes where murder is openly displayed. And it is here where Wilson's religious narrative finds its strongest expression. As one might expect, The River Thief has a moving twist in the end, and is ultimately a story of tremendous grace. Further, I appreciated the life lessons that punctuated the film, one particular saying that stood out to me was, "Stealing gives you control; gratitude gives you freedom". After watching the film it made me think of John Steinbeck's, Of Mice and Men, and Victor Hugo's Les Misérables.
Most Christian film's unfortunately 'milk' their Christian agendas and religious themes. The River Thief avoids this, at least for the most part. In my opinion, this makes it one of the best Christian films of late, even if I feel The River Thief might have done better. But considering that this is a first N. D. Wilson film, with a younger audience in mind, and limited resources, it's a wonderful film, well worth a watch!
Whether we like it or not, Christians do have a grand story to tell, the question is how well they tell it!
Very briefly, the film starts off with a series of criminal acts by the river thief, Diz, a delinquent adolescent, apparently with a troubled past. He finds himself a reluctant friend, Raleigh, and has brief interactions with her grandfather, Marty, both of whom challenge the thief's criminal behavior and attitude on life. The main themes of the film are the gift of life and forgiveness, not to mention the consequences of one's actions. The consequences of the thief's actions ultimately lead to abduction and death, including in the end his own death.
The film is not without weakness. Firstly, I felt the thievery of the main character, Diz, in the opening scenes were overdone and could have been more subtle, it was also utterly senseless and thus unconvincing. Secondly, the characters were somewhat underdeveloped, and the plot might have benefited from refinement, that is, it felt 'clunky' at times. Lastly, I have a problem with Wilson having a kid running about with a fire arm. The same can be said of his recent book, Outlaws of Time: The Legend of Sam Miracle (which despite this, is a wonderful literary work). Perhaps this is an American thing?
Nevertheless, the film seems to have more strengths than weaknesses. Firstly, the setting is an arid landscape and is visually quite stunning, together with a small American town and its typical architecture. All of this is captured quite beautifully by great cinematography. Secondly, the actions in the firm are exaggerated, and this becomes rather creative and fun at times. The evil and violence on the other hand is subtle which allows for vivid imagination, at least until one of the last scenes where murder is openly displayed. And it is here where Wilson's religious narrative finds its strongest expression. As one might expect, The River Thief has a moving twist in the end, and is ultimately a story of tremendous grace. Further, I appreciated the life lessons that punctuated the film, one particular saying that stood out to me was, "Stealing gives you control; gratitude gives you freedom". After watching the film it made me think of John Steinbeck's, Of Mice and Men, and Victor Hugo's Les Misérables.
Most Christian film's unfortunately 'milk' their Christian agendas and religious themes. The River Thief avoids this, at least for the most part. In my opinion, this makes it one of the best Christian films of late, even if I feel The River Thief might have done better. But considering that this is a first N. D. Wilson film, with a younger audience in mind, and limited resources, it's a wonderful film, well worth a watch!
Whether we like it or not, Christians do have a grand story to tell, the question is how well they tell it!
- falconermaclachlan
- Dec 4, 2016
- Permalink
I love everything N. D. Wilson. I've read all of his fiction books. So when I heard he was making a movie, I was (of course) super excited. THE RIVER THIEF does not disappoint. With beautiful, sweeping cinematography, well crafted and acted characters, and a story that packs a powerful punch, there's nothing more I could ask from N. D. Wilson's screen debut.
THE RIVER THIEF follows the story of Diz, a homeless, parent-less kid who takes what he likes when he wants it. He's following a river through the countryside to find the town where his father is supposed to be. He doesn't know whether he wants to meet his father or kill him, but when he crosses paths with a girl named Selah and her grandfather, his entire life changes.
I love how beautifully this film is shot. The sweeping landscape shots take my breath away, and the action is tight and controlled. No excessive shaky cam here! The acting is also very good. The film is actually a bit more mature than I expected. There is a fair amount of violence and some cussing, as well as some slight innuendo (a rather crazy, protective woman accuses a man of 'touching her son inappropriately'. The man does nothing more than grab the boy by the collar, mistaking him for someone else. Also a girl says that she 'can't be bought and she isn't a whore' after a boy gives her a bunch of gifts trying to get her attention.)
The story is very powerful and emotional, and I caught myself getting a bit choked up at the end! Overall, I am blown away. A wonderful film for teens and adults. 10 out of 10!
THE RIVER THIEF follows the story of Diz, a homeless, parent-less kid who takes what he likes when he wants it. He's following a river through the countryside to find the town where his father is supposed to be. He doesn't know whether he wants to meet his father or kill him, but when he crosses paths with a girl named Selah and her grandfather, his entire life changes.
I love how beautifully this film is shot. The sweeping landscape shots take my breath away, and the action is tight and controlled. No excessive shaky cam here! The acting is also very good. The film is actually a bit more mature than I expected. There is a fair amount of violence and some cussing, as well as some slight innuendo (a rather crazy, protective woman accuses a man of 'touching her son inappropriately'. The man does nothing more than grab the boy by the collar, mistaking him for someone else. Also a girl says that she 'can't be bought and she isn't a whore' after a boy gives her a bunch of gifts trying to get her attention.)
The story is very powerful and emotional, and I caught myself getting a bit choked up at the end! Overall, I am blown away. A wonderful film for teens and adults. 10 out of 10!
- ariaemaher
- Dec 14, 2016
- Permalink
There are some very good artists in this flick. First of all I'd like to mention Tommy Cash (the folk singer), here at his first acting performance: very intense, completely believable in his key role. A great artist.
Then the beautiful (and gifted singer too) Raleigh Cain, about whom I'm certain we will hear more in the future. Then the convincing Bas Rutten, Paul Johansson and Joel Courtney, of course.
And then the talented Author: Nathan D Wilson (Writer, Director and Producer) who on a flimsy plot (it could really have been a disaster ) built a catching piece made of excellent characters, meaningful words and beautiful scenery.
An entertaining and pleasant film.
Then the beautiful (and gifted singer too) Raleigh Cain, about whom I'm certain we will hear more in the future. Then the convincing Bas Rutten, Paul Johansson and Joel Courtney, of course.
And then the talented Author: Nathan D Wilson (Writer, Director and Producer) who on a flimsy plot (it could really have been a disaster ) built a catching piece made of excellent characters, meaningful words and beautiful scenery.
An entertaining and pleasant film.
- niutta-enrico
- Feb 24, 2017
- Permalink
I've noticed this film getting some pretty polarized reviews, and some, I can only think come from a bias against a story that isn't post-modern, nihilistic, and subversive. For those who enjoy the good and the hopeful, this is a film that will satisfy and entertain. Bas Ruten is a charismatic person in real life, and his charm comes through in the film. The actors are all very watchable, and the tale is one that can be discussed with your family and provide even more chances to grow and critique.
So much more fulfilling than the cookie-cutter "blockbuster" film that hollywood tries to feed us on like McDonalds hamburgers.
So much more fulfilling than the cookie-cutter "blockbuster" film that hollywood tries to feed us on like McDonalds hamburgers.
I'm surprised one of the top user reviews criticizes the end (last 20-30 minutes) of the film. To me, that part is what took it from a decent film, to a great film. It was artistic yet intense, and just great storytelling. I want to say so much more but I really don't want to spoil any specifics for anyone.
The only negative thing I have to say is on the acting. Most of the characters - the boy, the girl, the drug traffickers - did a good job. But the grandpa, while I actually thought he was a good character, just didn't pull off a lot of the lines in a way that seemed natural. The guitar aspect with him was cool, and his attitude and mannerisms fit the character, but I just think a different actor for the grandpa could have done a much better job. Someone with a little more acting experience and gusto.
The only negative thing I have to say is on the acting. Most of the characters - the boy, the girl, the drug traffickers - did a good job. But the grandpa, while I actually thought he was a good character, just didn't pull off a lot of the lines in a way that seemed natural. The guitar aspect with him was cool, and his attitude and mannerisms fit the character, but I just think a different actor for the grandpa could have done a much better job. Someone with a little more acting experience and gusto.