MOVIE REVIEW
Off Ramp
 (adult content) -     

Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Crime
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director(s): Nathan Tape
Writer(s): Tim Cairo, Nathan Tape
Cast: Jon Oswald, Scott Turner Schofield, Ashley Smith, Jared Bankens, Reed Diamond, Miles Doleac, Laura Cayouette, Rhonda Johnson Dents, David Jensen, Ned Yousef, Emma Frances Burge, Kate Adair, Atticus Tape
Where To Watch: Showing at the 2024 Panic Film Festival and the 2024 Calgary Underground Film Festival. Follow OffRampFilm on Instagram for more information and future showings.

RAVING REVIEW: OFF RAMP takes us on a heartfelt (and uniquely odd) journey into Juggalo culture, steered by the unbreakable bond between Trey (Jon Oswald) and Silas (Scott Turner Schofield.) Directed by Nathan Tape, this film serves as a love letter to those who find belonging in the fringes, painting a picture of life's vibrancy beyond mainstream acceptance. Trey and Silas’ quest to go to “The Gathering” of the Juggalos is a compelling narrative of resilience, identity, and friendship, delivered with a candidness that both moves and amuses. Despite a few hiccups along the way, this narrative triumphs, offering a slice of life sprinkled with laughter, empathy, and a lot of face paint.

OFF RAMP invites viewers into its protagonists' colorful and chaotic world from the get-go. Following Trey's release from incarceration, his reunion with Silas kickstarts an odyssey filled with quirky characters and surreal challenges. These encounters not only test their friendship but also highlight the film’s underlying messages about the absurdity of life and the importance of deep, personal connections. Clown love for life!

The film is a creation that will appeal to those familiar with Insane Clown Posse (ICP), yet despite what some other reviews mention, I think the film has a broader appeal as well. If you’re already a fan of the wicked clowns, this will feel like a love letter written for you. However, it's also a story that will capture the imagination of those who may not be down with the clown. The essence of Juggalo's life against the sprawling backdrop of America is captured beautifully in the film, and it offers up a small peak inside the window of this passionate fanbase. The genuine chemistry between the lead characters grounds the film’s exploration of identity and acceptance, making every scene a visual treat.

OFF RAMP attempts to juggle an array of themes and tones, which, while ambitious, can sometimes lead to a mix that feels a tad much. It felt like an experience that needed a tighter focus; it needed to be a comedy, a drama, or even horror, but combining them all felt overwhelming at times. OFF RAMP stands tall against the critique, offering a powerful commentary on the struggles and stereotypes its protagonists face. By tackling their unfair categorization head-on, the film adds depth and resilience, challenging viewers to look past the exterior and appreciate the shared humanity.

There’s so much potential here; I would love to see another film where Trey and Silas are at a Gathering or just entirely off the hook. OFF RAMP reflects the eclectic nature of Juggalo culture, leaving the audience with a deeper appreciation for this unique community. In his debut role as director, Nathan Tape showcases an adept storytelling ability that marks a significant addition to independent cinema.

OFF RAMP affirms friendship's power and a nod to the unseen beauty in the world’s overlooked reaches. Its heart, rich with the themes of companionship and perseverance, lingers well beyond the closing credits. The journey the film takes us on is undeniably worth every step.

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[photo courtesy of CAIRO PICTURES, GOD MACHINE PRODUCTIONS, MEDIA DARLING PRODUCTIONS, TRANSVERSAL PRODUCTIONS, THE COVEN]

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