Watch American Primitive

American Primitive is a 2009 independent comedy-drama film directed by Gwen Wynne and written by Mark Maine. The movie boasts of a powerful cast featuring renowned actors like Tate Donovan, Adam Pascal, and Danielle Savre. The story follows the life of an unmarried, thirty-something artist named Paul (played by Tate Donovan), who has recently lost his father. Paul is trying to come to terms with his father's death while dealing with his eccentric family members who have all gathered at the family home in the Connecticut countryside to scatter his father's ashes. Paul's family is an eclectic mix of characters, including his grieving mother, siblings, close family friends, and some old flames.

The family dynamic is further complicated with the arrival of Paul's estranged brother, Jonathan (Adam Pascal), who is a successful financial analyst in New York City. Jonathan is married to a beautiful, sophisticated woman named Tracy (Danielle Savre) and has two young children. On the other hand, Paul's career has stalled, and he is still recovering from a failed relationship with his ex-girlfriend. The contrast between the two brothers' lifestyles and career choices is stark and provides a source of tension throughout the movie.

As the family tries to deal with the aftermath of their father's death, they revisit old rivalries and wounds. Each character deals with the loss in their unique way, and their coping mechanisms provide an interesting insight into their personalities. The family members are forced to confront their fears, disappointments, and insecurities as they face a new reality without the patriarch of the family.

Despite the serious undertones of the movie, American Primitive has many comedic moments that lighten the mood. The witty sarcasm and dry humor are a welcome respite from the more emotional scenes. The movie interweaves the dramatic moments with the comedic in a seamless manner.

The film's cinematography is stunning, capturing the rustic beauty of the countryside and the grandeur of the family estate. Moreover, the soundtrack is a standout feature of the film. The original score by Tim Williams beautifully complements the movie's theme and mood, enhancing the emotional impact of each scene.

Overall, American Primitive is a heartwarming and poignant family drama that explores themes of loss, grief, and reconciliation. The movie's talented cast delivers an excellent performance, adding depth and nuance to the already well-written script. The comedic moments and beautiful cinematography only add to the movie's charm. The film manages to strike a balance between being thought-provoking and entertaining, making it a must-watch for fans of independent cinema.