A Story With a Unique Twist to It

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MOVIE REVIEW
The Road to Galena
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2022
Runtime: 1h 50m
Director(s): Joe Hall
Writer(s): Joe Hall
Cast: Ben Winchell, Will Brittain, Aimee Teegarden, Alisa Allapach, Jay O. Sanders, Jill Hennessy, Jennifer Holliday
Where To Watch: Releasing July 8 in Theaters & VOD

One of my continued favorite aspects of reviewing films is the surprise. When you think that you know what to expect and then a film just sits you down in your spot at that point, I consider that film indeed something different. The story has been seen before, but I don’t think it’s ever been told like this. First and foremost, this entire cast blew me away, from the leads to the minor roles. This easily could’ve been a Hallmark channel original; instead, it became one of my year's top films! They all put their whole hearts into this production, and it shows.

This is director Joe Hall’s feature-length debut after directing several short films, and wow! What a way to come out swinging. There was so much thought put into the film, not only the directing but the writing. The “hero” who had it all, giving it up to go after the simple things and the fallout that comes from that decision. The balance of the cinematography, the location of the film, and the harsh contrast between the city and the country all add to a visual treat that stem from Hall’s personal life.

As with many films, COVID-19 put this to the test, the production had to undergo rigorous testing, and all of the other stringent rules were put in place to protect cast and crew alike. So not only were they able to make a beautiful film, but they could do so under crazy conditions.

As I mentioned above, the film's cast is what sold it to me. I won’t lie; I wasn’t familiar with them, which ultimately made for a better experience in general. I didn’t have these preconceived notions of what they were or who they should be. Most have notable filmographies but not ones that I was necessarily familiar with. I think that Alisa Allapach’s performance stood out the most to me. Every line of dialogue delivered felt so authentic and so passionate!

If you’re lucky enough to have this show in a theater, please check it out. Otherwise, make sure to view it at home on VOD.

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