Watch Cortez

Cortez is a 2017 indie thriller directed by Cheryl Nichols, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Jesse Scott. The movie follows the story of Martin (Arron Shiver), a solitary man who lives in the mountains of Colorado with his dog, Cortez. Martin is a veteran who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and seems to be haunted by his past. He spends his days hunting and fishing in the woods, avoiding any contact with other people. However, everything changes when a group of people arrive at his cabin seeking refuge from a blizzard.

The stranded group consists of Amber (Cheryl Nichols), a pregnant woman, and her husband, TJ (Drago Sumonja), along with their friend, Billy (J.R. Villarreal). Martin is reluctant to let them in, but eventually, he relents and allows them to stay the night. However, as the night progresses, tensions rise, and secrets are revealed, and Martin learns that he may not be the only one with a troubled past.

The movie is an intense and gripping exploration of the human psyche and the impact of PTSD on veterans and their families. The plot relies heavily on character development, as the movie primarily takes place within the confines of Martin's cabin, with minimal action and dialogue.

Arron Shiver delivers a powerful performance as Martin, portraying the character's inner turmoil and struggle with PTSD convincingly. Shiver's subtle expressions and body language convey Martin's inner pain and help to create a compelling character.

Cheryl Nichols also delivers a standout performance as Amber, a strong and determined woman who refuses to let her pregnancy slow her down. Nichols brings a naturalistic approach to the character, making her both relatable and likable.

Drago Sumonja is equally impressive as TJ, Amber's husband, who is struggling with his own demons. Sumonja brings a quiet intensity to the role, making TJ a sympathetic and complex character.

J.R. Villarreal also delivers a solid performance as Billy, TJ's friend, who is the catalyst for much of the conflict in the movie. Villarreal's performance adds an element of intensity and unpredictability to the film, making the character both intriguing and dangerous.

Overall, Cortez is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged movie that explores important themes surrounding mental health and trauma. The movie may not be for everyone, as it is slow-paced and relies heavily on character development rather than action. However, for those who appreciate character-driven dramas, Cortez is a must-see film.

Cortez is a 2015 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.