MOVIE REVIEW
Lost on a Mountain in Maine
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Genre: Adventure, Drama, Family
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 38m
Director(s): Andrew Boodhoo Kightlinger
Writer(s): Luke Paradise, Donn Fendler
Cast: Luke David Blumm, Paul Sparks, Caitlin FitzGerald, Ethan Slater, Griffin Wallace Henkel
Where To Watch: in select theaters November 1, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Set in the rugged terrains of Maine during the Great Depression, this film is a poignant narrative that melds breathtaking landscapes with the intense drama of survival and emotional connection. Director Andrew Boodhoo Kightlinger delivers a visually striking and profoundly human story that explores the resilience of the human spirit through the eyes of a young boy. The film, adapted from a true-life story and a book by the same name, captures the essence of adventure and the profound battles against nature and within oneself.

As the storm clouds gather, young Donn Fendler (Luke David Blumm) finds himself isolated in the relentless wilderness of Maine, setting the stage for a survival saga that is both heart-stopping and heart-stirring. Cinematographer Idan Menin transforms the natural scenery into a vast, imposing essence that challenges the young protagonist at every turn. This visual experience serves as the backdrop and plays a pivotal role in the narrative, emphasizing the theme of man versus nature.

The film's emotional core lies in Donn's transformative journey, portrayed authentically by Blumm. From exhilaration to despair, Donn’s ordeal is a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. His interactions with his father, Donald, played by Paul Sparks, are laced with survival wisdom that becomes crucial to his survival. These moments resonate with any viewer who recognizes the impact of such relationships on personal growth.

Caitlin FitzGerald delivers a powerhouse performance as Donn’s mother, Ruth, defies the conventional passive parental role often depicted in survival dramas. Her relentless determination to locate her son adds emotional depth to the film, showcasing the fierce persistence of a parent's love.

Kightlinger’s directorial approach seamlessly blends narrative and documentary styles, enhancing the film's authenticity and emotional impact. The clever use of various camera angles captures Donn's psychological and physical disorientation, adding an immersive element to the viewing experience. Complementing these visuals, Garth Stevenson’s score encapsulates Donn's journey's fluctuating tensions and triumphs, enriching the film’s atmospheric depth.

While the film commendably portrays the harsh realities of survival, such as battling frostbite and fatigue, it also celebrates the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world. These elements are beautifully juxtaposed to depict the wilderness as a formidable foe and a majestic entity.

The film does leave some narrative threads unexplored. Specific survival strategies and secondary characters, notably Ethan Slater’s brief role as Henry, are introduced but not fully fleshed out, leaving some aspects without a satisfactory conclusion. This aspect may leave viewers curious for more insights into Donn’s survival techniques and the ultimate fates of other characters introduced along the way.

The film is a memorable exploration of survival, love, and resilience. It appeals to a broad audience and moves beyond mere entertainment to reflect human endurance and depth. This film is more than just a survival story—it is a heartfelt tribute to the strength of the human spirit and the bonds that define us, destined to resonate with viewers for years.

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[photo courtesy of BLUE FOX ENTERTAINMENT]

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