Peaks and Valleys

Havinig seen a number of Alaska independent films in the past, I was skeptical at first, but then the story unfolded. The dialogue was brilliant, except for the over used F-bombs. The director and cinematographer were equal geniuses, along with the writer this trio collesed this independent film into an enjoyable sneek preview of what is sure to be dearly beloved Alaska Gem.

The lead actor was unbelievably Beliveable, I was impressed with his skill. The lead actress is incredibly talented as well. Kudos to the makeup crew: the wrist scars were superb!! I can't wait to see the final version of this Alaska tale and can't wait for more to come from this talented crew.

The attraction was the incredible beauty of Alaska for me; but I was little prepared for the rather tragic story that unfolded (very s l o w l y, I might add) The dynamic of the young girl whose "been around" and the older guy whose truly "been around" was most interesting. I can't help but believe this story is based on mostly fact. Jack played a mysterious role and we learn more about Bailey as the story unfolds. I think the pace should have been faster in telling such a story but will let that go. Having backpacked through Alaska and met many an interesting person? I can certainly attest to the authenticity of the those who reside there year round, "off the beaten path" as in the woods and AWAY from the larger cities. It is remote, unique, one of a kind and takes one tough person to sustain. It is rough-cut story, full of pain, misunderstanding and understanding, if not a few small graces. While not "entertaining" for me as much as a story of human interest? It must have taken a helluva writer to create this storyline...Again...Based on the sadder, uglier side of life, I'm sure.

This film was well written and acting was top notch. The dynamics between "Jack" and "Bailey" touches your emotions. The scenery is the typical beauty Alaska has to offer and I must admit, I didn't see that ending coming.... I highly recommend this film.

In "Peaks and Valleys", Jack (Kevin T. Bennett) is living as a recluse in a remote cabin in Alaska. His solitude is rudely interrupted by a plane which drops a naked, trussed-up and drugged-up girl into his lake. Traumatised by her experiences, the girl (Bailey, played by Kitty Mahoney) is unwilling to trust the man. But trust him she must, since they are in the Alaskan wilderness and Jack tells her that the supply plane might not come for a couple of months.

How and why was Bailey dumped from the plane? Why is Jack living all alone in the wilderness, and why is he packing a hand-gun? As tempers fray, can the pair survive each other's company? All intriguing questions that demand answers.

Positives:

• Although it's only a low-budget Indie-film, it has an intriguing premise that packs a punch above its weight. Since although the story is told in a linear way, the script includes 'asides' - told either through imagined conversations or dreams - that create a jigsaw of questions for the viewer. And the dynamic between Jack and Bailey develops in an interesting way. Overall, I was intrigued to see how the questions raised would pan out.

• I'm often disappointed that the acting in these types of Indie films is below par. To a large degree, this is not the case here. Kevin Bennett is very believable as the crusty old backwoodsman. And Kitty Mahoney, in her movie debut, delivers a smashing performance. She has real screen-presence. I'm not sure if this was a "one off" for her, or if she intends to pursue an acting career: but I really hope it's the latter.

• Another star of the show is the dramatic Alaskan landscapes, lovingly photographed by cinematographer Bryan Pentecostes. Some of the shots are just "double-WOW"! The movie is a wonderful piece of PR for the Alaskan Tourist Board, for sure.

• Michael Dillon's script avoids clichés and lazy wins. It would be an easy plot point to see the vulnerable young Bailey sexually exploited by the older man. But very much on topic, following the debate around "Promising Young Woman" and earning the film a welcome #notallmen hashtag, Jack makes it abundantly clear that this is not a route we're going to go down.

• The clever script also has some nice lines that resonate: "We can't change the wrong that's been done to us." growls Jack, "But we're damned if we don't let it change us". But amongst the philosophical sound-bytes, the script also finds time to have some light-hearted fun at times. A nice scene to emphasise the growing relationship and mutual respect between the pair is when Jack teaches Bailey to ice-fish. Jack examines Bailey's amateurish efforts. "It ain't the prettiest hole, but I'd stick my pole in it" he says. "I bet you say that to all the girls" quips back Bailey.

• I enjoyed the music by Evan Evans very much too. There's also a nice song over the end credits by Gregory Alan Isakov as well.

• Finally, a special shout-out to Garrett Martin for some very well done and quease-inducing injury make-up.

Negatives:

• For all the good aspects about the script, there are a few times, particularly early on in Jack and Bailey's relationship, where I found the exchanges between them forced and unconvincing. This was sometimes down to the script, and sometimes down to over-stretching the acting abilities of the cast.

• The dramatic finale - although surprising and satisfying - relies on some rather unbelievable timing.

Summary Thoughts: When I start watching a low-budget Indie film, I tend to set my expectations accordingly. Often the acting is naff; the script will be hand-gnawingly awful; and/or the production values are found wanting. I was really pleasantly surprised that this movie ticked the "none of the above" box. And yes, there were a few rough edges here and there, but I've seen multi-million pound Hollywood blockbusters that were far worse. Michael Burns has delivered a tight and intriguing movie that sensibly sticks to a 96 minute run time, such that I was never bored.

I really enjoyed this one and recommend it. And you only need to fork out a few quid to rent it on Amazon. If you do, I'd be interested in your views.

(For the full graphical review, please check out One Mann's Movies on the web or Facebook. Thanks).

We enjoyed this movie about two people, Jack and Bailey, who were brought together by fate when they needed each other the most. It was engaging, slow paced but not boring. The characters were well developed and well acted. I enjoyed the twist at the end.