River’s End (2005)
Picture:
C Sound: C+ Extras: C+ Film: B-
Compelling
and interesting enough to likely land Sam Huntington the Jimmy Olsen role in Superman Returns, actor-turned-director
William Katt’s effective drama River’s
End (2005) tells the story of how young Clay (Huntington) has to deal with
harassment and personal demons to get past being upset and unsatisfied with his
life.
The
screenplay by Glen Stephens offers solutions that are far too pat, but enough
of the film, Katt’s directing and the cast’s acting works together enough that
you can really enjoy the film as a moral of life, even as some of what it
speaks of is more myth than reliable reality.
After
troubles in school and his small town with small-mindedness, Clay faces his fear
of water by going out in the middle of nowhere to find himself. However, two criminals who stole a car have
kidnapped a roommate and she is now in jeopardy unbeknownst to him, who is
initially the accused in the situation.
Caroline Goodall and Greg Evigan are also effective in supporting roles
of the more known actors here.
The
letterboxed 1.85 X 1 image is nicely shot by cinematographer John-Paul Beeghly,
but the transfer is too soft and does not show off the work to best
advantage. The Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo
is simple and just fine for this independent production. Extras include a feature length audio
commentary by Katt, Huntington & writer/producer Glen Stephens, Stephen’s
filmmaker intro and theatrical trailer.
- Nicholas Sheffo
