A Fresh Take on Friendship and Foes

Read Time:3 Minute, 55 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Opportunity
–

Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime, Drama
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 36m
Director(s): Rusty Rehl
Writer(s): Rusty Rehl
Cast: Jon Waters, Quinn Aikele, Aaron Henretty, Anthony Hill, Amanda Coryat, Mason Mack, Jordan Atkinson, Riley Gurr, Trent Martin, Rusty Rehl
Where To Watch: TBA

RAVING REVIEW: OPPORTUNITY explores the often gritty and comedic complexities of life’s unpredictable circumstances. Director Rusty Rehl tells a tale teeming with humor and heart, tackling the economic challenges that resonate with everyday folks. The film features Jon Waters as Patrick Getty, navigating through life’s unpredictabilities with a blend of hope and survival—Quinn Aikele as Donnie, whose impulsive antics introduce an enticing element of chaos.

This is an indie feature; you can see the growing pains from the acting to filming. Occasionally suffers from clunky exposition that can detract from its otherwise smooth pacing. The action sequences, while ambitious, sometimes miss the mark in terms of impact, hinting at the potential for more. However, the heart of a film is the most important, and this one has plenty! From the onset, the film envelops viewers in its portrayal of a small town, transforming the landscape into a symbol in its own right with the help of sweeping shots. This style serves the narrative, amplifying the emotional stakes of Patrick's journey from a van to an elusive dream home. It makes the vistas a backdrop to a life teetering between stability and upheaval.

The relationship between Patrick and Donnie is the film’s core, providing comedic relief and a look at friendship under pressure. Fueled by Waters' somber optimism and Aikele's unpredictability, their interactions explore themes of loyalty and ambition while navigating a minefield of risky schemes and even more dangerous adversaries. This dynamic duo breathes life into OPPORTUNITY.

However, OPPORTUNITY’s ambitious melding of comedy and thriller elements isn't without its pitfalls. The film occasionally struggles with its tone, where lighter moments seem to disrupt rather than enhance the tension, reflecting the difficulty in balancing such a diverse narrative spectrum.

The film's unique antagonists add a layer of unique humor and serve as a narrative curveball, enriching the film's commentary on unpredictability. This, coupled with performances by Aaron Henretty as Jared Rossi and Trent Martin’s portrayal as Elder Young, adds a touch of the unexpected to the storyline, making each character’s motives and actions a critical piece of the film’s puzzle.

Certain scenes last a little longer than necessary, not because of their content but because of their integration into the film's overall structure. A more stringent edit could streamline these moments, enhance the pacing and overall engagement, and make the narrative as compelling in its delivery as it is in its conception.

Yet, these issues do little to dim the overall experience of OPPORTUNITY. The film is a testament to indie filmmaking's heart, where passion and resourcefulness often transcend budgetary constraints. Rehl’s commitment is evident, from the meticulously chosen soundtrack that complements the film’s emotions to the cast and crew's dedication.

As the credits roll on OPPORTUNITY, the audience is left with a lingering reflection on the adversities and triumphs of the human spirit. The film provokes thought and stirs empathy, weaving a narrative that is both a mirror and a beacon for those wrestling with their own 'opportunities' and challenges. This marks a promising debut for Rusty Rehl, showcasing his capacity to craft stories as meaningful as they are entertaining.

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[photo courtesy of MORRIS HILL PRODUCTIONS]

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