Opening:
Do you like deserts? Do you like thrillers? First off, we should be friends and secondly you will like this one. Let’s get reel and break this down.
Plot:
For three Border Patrol agents working a remote desert checkpoint, the contents of one car will reveal an insidious plot within their own ranks. The next 24 hours will take them on a treacherous journey that could cost them their lives.
Writing/Directing
Pros:
I will definitely keep things vague since I want you to go into this blind. The story is like a fast roller coaster and demands your attention from the start of it. The complex characters keep the audience guessing on whom to root for and adding another layer to this suspenseful thriller. The atmosphere is palpable with unnerving tension and the director keeps that tone throughout with never a dull moment.
Cons:
This is a selfish thing but I wish certain elements, towards the end, were explored more since we spent a lot of time building it up. However, it didn’t bother me because I was hooked more on the relationship between these three border patrol agents.
Acting
Pros:
The three leads deliver a believable chemistry among them and I felt like they have been friends for a while. Johnny Simmons is the standout as he has been taking a backseat for many years so it was nice to see him flex his acting chops. Gabriel Luna is also very strong and Clifton Collins, Jr. is…well…always awesome.
Cons:
None.
Cinematography
Pros:
The grit and intensity flows through the cinematography grounding the story and making us feel the heat from the sun, the sweat from the characters, and the vastness of the desert with the emotional, intimate core of the characters. It also helps when most of it is shot with natural lighting, highlighting Mother Nature in her true form.
Cons:
None.
Editing/Special Effects
Pros:
The story grabs you by the throat and never lets go. With it’s short run-time, I wanted more when it was over. This is good thriller filmmaking.
Cons:
Again selfish, but I wanted more because I loved the story.
Overall:
This is a fast paced thrill to fill anyone’s need for some adrenaline in his or her movie going experience. Did I mention I love desert thrillers?
Grade: B+
(Review by Chase Lee)
Q&A following screening of movie:
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