Cold Cross

I would not consider myself a western aficionado, but I have watched a lot of them throughout my life as I typically enjoy any genre of film. It is rare, though, for a western film to stick out in my mind. That list is limited to films such as Tombstone, True Grit (Jeff Bridges), and Django Unchained. I am pleased to add Cold Cross to that list after seeing it last night.

This film manages to pack a good bit of humor into an otherwise dark film centered around revenge and the consequences for those that seek it. The storyline may be dark, but the scenes certainly are not. Make no mistake that this is one of the more beautifully shot films that I have personally watched. It reminded me of The Revenant a bit in this regard.

I did have some minor quibbles with the film, but all things considered, what a directorial debut for Dylan Query. He is clearly gifted and possesses immense potential as a storyteller. What he and his team managed to accomplish on a very small budget is nothing short of remarkable. I very much look forward to the next project from Query Productions and I would encourage anybody to see this film. It is well worth your time.

This film was captured by passionate individuals, and let me emphasize that I have no intention to criticize the production, color correction, or editing. Though there are numerous reasons to do so, the creators undeniably put effort into it; credit must be given where it's due. Certain aspects of the film are commendable, such as the distinctive characters, competent acting, and adequate cinematography. However, it is undeniably challenging to watch. I cannot rate it higher than 4 out of 10. Although I haven't completed it yet, I believe it's only fair to acknowledge the filmmakers for their attempt. Congratulations to the creators! Your project has found its place! I wish you success, and I sincerely hope that your next film showcases even more talent, as I truly believe in your capabilities!

This IS the film to watch! I highly suggest you check out this movie.

It's got everything...action, suspense, love, & tragedy.

The story line was great! You felt like you quickly knew the characters and became close with them. Each having there own righteousness and emotional reasons for the actions they took. Leaving you wondering what the end would behold.

The audio was on point, especially when I discovered that some of the sound effects for the movie were actually made by the director, main actor, and audio crew. Purchasing musical instruments similar to that which would be in that era, so it would not only sound authentic for that time period but bring a genuine western flare to the movie.

Not to mention, every musical piece you hear was written and recorded by the main actor, his brothers, and in some cases even the director, specifically for this film.

For this to be the first feature length film this young director/editor produced, I absolutely can not wait to see what is next! The hard work, and dedicated time put in to this film shows. This young man has basically produced a Hollywood film on a shoestring budget. Watch out Stephen Spielberg, Dylan Query is on his way!

It is good to see talented people developing their own stories

Positives

Cinematography is very good. Clarity of the shots are very good

Audio. Nothing to complain about.

Editing. Very good.

Negatives.

1. Story was confusing and lacked focus. The scenes were hard to understand, follow, and lack connection.

Lines were choppy. To much exposition. Scenes did not have a good tempo. I found myself distracted and not focused on the story.

The movie didn't engage me. It lacked the ability to draw me in.

Overall, the movie seemed like several trailers put together to make a story. I could not see the connections well.

All movies draw you in to the main character. It was hard to determine right away who the main character was.

I have seent this pattern before. The production value is great but the time that needs to be taken on the script, the tempo, the actors, and story progression is lacking. This could have been a great story. My insite on this was that there were few people in the creative decision area and little effort to take time in story development. The talented skills in movie production are there. The time to develop the scenes and direct the actors was limited.

I look forward to seeing what's next for this up and coming production company. They have create potential and I wish them well.

I loved this movie. I grew up watching Westerns from my grandpa's lap so it is a favorite genre of mine. The cinematography, storyline and music were phenomenal. As far as the acting, the best compliment I can give is that I became fully immersed in the story, and was especially emotionally impacted by the relationship between William and Jude. Romance, humor, action and grit... loved it! I hope the film industry takes off in Indiana, the talent is certainly here, and I will be following Query productions and the Cold Cross cast and crew for further productions to support! Best of luck as you continue to promote Cold Cross.