Director: Kyle Armstrong Producer: Blake McWilliam, Kyle Armstrong Studio: Mongrel Media Starring: Paul Sparks, Susan Kent, Landon Liboiron, Nicholas Campbell, Will Oldham, Bruce Dern Genre: Drama Running Time: 116 minutes
Sunday, November 5, 2023 8:00:34 PM | (Age Not Specified)
I haven’t seen anything like it, it’s maybe like a stoic Coen Brothers movie meets a bit of Lynch. Performances are very strong, dialog is flawless. The pace is definitely slower than most films in 2023 but somehow really fits the rural setting. Very layered with many (too many?) themes but that’s all good by me. The ambiguity might bother some people but again that’s kinda what I like. Reminded me of Take Shelter too. Great score. And the cinematography is absolutely stunning. See it if you get the chance.
Wednesday, October 13, 2021 11:14:16 PM | (Age Not Specified)
From the get-go, you can tell that this film isn't your typical cowboys and farmers trope, and that was the main intention of talented writer and director Kyle Armstrong. There's nothing romantic about this prairie life, and Paul Sparks perfectly captures that persona from the moment he appears onscreen. He's got big dreams of taking over his boss' farm, which is thwarted by the prodigal son (Landon Liboiron) who comes home to claim his birthright. The two face off not through physical means but through calculated words and actions and there's tension between them so thick you can cut it with a knife. The scenes are all smartly paced and the cinematography is amazing, but what makes this film truly outstanding is the solid direction that led to truly high-calibre performances especially from Sparks and Bruce Dern. Liboiron, a novice compared to these acting vets, amazingly holds his own, proving he's got potential to make it big in the acting biz. Also keep an eye out for Will Oldham as the barkeep and prick up your ears for his crazy story.
Saturday, October 9, 2021 7:30:23 PM | (Age Not Specified)
Pretty amazing film, having grown up on the prairies in the late 70s this feels very accurate for the time and place. The tension really builds, slowly but that seems intentional. Cinematography is astounding, and all of the performances are really great. Great drama, but with an extra layer of "weirdness" to the whole thing. It won't be everyone's cup of tea, but it certainly was mine. Saw it a the Vancouver International Film Festival and have been thinking about it ever since.
