Exile

Saw this at Whistler Film Fest earlier this year, have not stopped talking about it, excited for family and friends to finally be able to see what I've been going on and on about.

The story us unique, the pacing is perfect, the performances are incredible, both Camille Sullivan and Adam Beach shine in this, the surrounding cast of characters are also wonderful.

Cinematography is sublime, felt genuinely alone in the wilderness at times. Huge congrats to the whole production team, felt privileged to be able to be at what I found out later was the world premiere, only thing that stinks is that it has taken this long for everyone else to see.

No pun intended - I actually thought it was Tom Hardy on the poster (pic here at imdb, I assume it is the poster) ... but it is actually Adam Beach ... a great actor in his own right. Now I understand if the slow burn nature of the movie is not something to everyones taste ... but if you can suspend your disbelief ... well there is something to cherish and enjoy here.

Actually once we learn what the premise ... or the core of the movie is, there are only two possibilities ... either we believe Beach character or we don't ... or rather he's telling the truth or he don't ... although I reckon there may be some gray areas. Whatever the case, I think it is well resolved and in the end there is more to the thrill of the movie and the suspense it did build ... good acting too and well shot and edited.

Wow, this was an awful "film". It made little sense and the actors were horrible. Can't believe I got suckered into watching it by the rating. I had to start fast forwarding through it just to tolerate the slow pace and bizarre behaviors in order to find out what happened in the end, which literally made almost no sense.

When it started off I couldn't believe the two people were even a couple - zero chemistry. Other characters also very hard to believe as characters, but were like caricatures instead. This is like watching a practical joke to bother with watching it. I have no idea what the purpose was.

I watched Exile with a few friends and it was much better than most of other indie and/or small budget movies we have watched this year.

The movie embarks on an ambitious exploration of guilt, redemption, and the human psyche. While it may not hit all the right notes, there are moments that shine like distant stars:

Layered Mystery: The film's enigmatic plot invites viewers to unravel its secrets. Ted Evans, portrayed by Adam Beach, grapples with his past, and the suspense builds as we navigate his fractured memories. The blurred lines between reality and illusion add intrigue.

Scenic Beauty: The cinematography deserves applause. Sweeping landscapes-snow-capped peaks, desolate forests-become characters in their own right. The wilderness mirrors Ted's emotional isolation, and the visual poetry resonates.

Adam Beach's Nuanced Performance: Despite the script's challenges, Beach infuses Ted with vulnerability. His haunted eyes convey a lifetime of regret. When he gazes at the horizon, we glimpse the weight he carries-a testament to Beach's skill.

Themes of Forgiveness and Healing: "Exile" subtly explores forgiveness as a beacon of hope. Ted's journey toward redemption, intertwined with Sara's unwavering love (Camille Sullivan), tugs at our hearts. Their bond, imperfect yet enduring, is the film's emotional core.

Ambiguity as Art: While some may find the film's ambiguity frustrating, it also invites introspection. What is exile? Is it physical or emotional? The film leaves room for interpretation, allowing viewers to engage beyond the screen.

In the quietude of remembrance, "Exile" invites us to ponder our own shadows.