The Dark Heart of the American Dream

Read Time:3 Minute, 10 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Anchorage
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 19m
Director(s): Scott Monahan
Writer(s): Dakota Loesch
Cast: Scott Monahan, Dakota Loesch, Christopher Corey Smith
Where To Watch: available on Prime Video

RAVING REVIEW: Take a look into the raw and unfiltered world of ANCHORAGE, a film that throws the spotlight on America’s opioid crisis with unflinching honesty. The movie marks the directorial debut of Scott Monahan and writer Dakota Loesch, who also take on the roles of the lead actors. They weave a narrative that takes us on a journey from the desolate landscapes of Florida to the hopeful yet distant shores of Alaska. The central plot revolves around two brothers who smuggle a load of drugs in a rather unusual way, all in a high-stakes attempt to capitalize on Alaska’s black market.

The cinematographic landscape of ANCHORAGE paints the story in a precise way. Through the lens of Erin Naifeh, we traverse a series of ghost towns, each a silent testament to the decline of a nation. Here, we encounter our protagonists, Jacob (Monahan) and John (Loesch.) These characters defy the conventional hero mold while at the same time not fitting the role of the anti-hero, yet we find ourselves somehow rooting for them at times. They are complex, embroiled in moral ambiguities, and shaped as much by their surroundings as their fraught personal choices.

Monahan’s directorial style is a dynamic blend of careful scripting and spontaneous storytelling. It brings to life the brothers’ emotional journey, one that is fraught with tension and fraught with unpredictability. The relationship between Jacob and John is not just a subplot; the film’s crux, depicting a rollercoaster of emotions, keeps the audience engaged.

ANCHORAGE is a stark critique of the so-called American dream, illustrating how it has become a nightmarish reality for some. The journey from Florida to Alaska is more than a physical trip; it’s a symbolic representation of the broader addiction epidemic that plagues the country. The film’s narrative is bold and unapologetic, unafraid to delve into cultural critiques reflective of the nation’s current state.

Monahan and Loesch deliver performances that balance between disturbing and captivating. Their portrayal of the characters is raw and authentic, creating personas that, while not traditionally likable, are utterly absorbing. The audience is left with an indelible mark courtesy of its nuanced portrayal of ambition, danger, and the human spirit.

ANCHORAGE has challenges; at times, it only grazes the surface of deeper thematic elements, hinting at a richness and complexity that begs further exploration. I would like to see if the end runtime was extended by 20 minutes and what type of story could have been explored. The film could have benefitted from a deeper dive into its central characters’ inner workings and backstories, offering a more comprehensive understanding of their motivations and struggles.

Monahan’s connection to the film’s subject matter, informed by his own experiences, lends the narrative an added depth and authenticity. His collaboration with Loesch offers a perspective that is as much a personal statement as a commentary on broader societal issues.

ANCHORAGE emerges as a noteworthy addition to the landscape of contemporary cinema. It’s a film that dares to confront the harsh realities of life head-on, making it an essential watch for those who value thought-provoking, emotionally resonant storytelling. While not flawless, the film’s authenticity and bold narrative approach make it a cinematic journey worth embarking on.

@anchoragemovie
@chipsahoyjunkie
@dakotaloesch

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[photo courtesy of THE MALT SHOP, CHARLEY]