Watch Craters of the Moon

Craters of the Moon is a 2013 independent film that follows the story of Laura (Breeda Wool) and Rey (Cody Lightning) as they navigate their way through the vast open spaces of Idaho’s volcanic landscape. The movie revolves around their journey towards self-discovery as they struggle to come to terms with their demons from the past.

The story kicks off with Laura, who is living a mundane life in Boise, Idaho, feeling uninspired and trapped in her job. She yearns for meaning and purpose in her life and decides to take a spontaneous road trip to Craters of the Moon National Monument in Idaho. It is here that she meets Rey, a solitary individual who is also searching for answers in a landscape that is harsh and unforgiving.

Laura and Rey hail from completely different backgrounds, with Laura being a white woman and Rey being a Native American. They come together through their connection to the land and form an unlikely bond that is both poignant and real. The movie does a great job of exploring the deeper themes of cultural identity and connection to the land without straying from the main plot of the story.

As they journey deeper into the wilderness, the pair’s spirits start to connect with the unique landscape of the Craters of the Moon. The fun and lighthearted road trip to the park quickly turns dark and eerie, with unexplainable events occurring that leave Laura and Rey bewildered and fearful. They begin to experience vivid memories from their past, present, and even alternate realities, adding to the sense of an unfolding mystery.

The cinematography is exceptional, with the filmmakers using the starkly beautiful landscape to create a sense of isolation and desolation. The Craters of the Moon serve as a beautiful, yet eerie, backdrop to the story, and the feelings of danger and mystery only intensify as the movie progresses.

The character of Laura is the emotional center of the movie, and Wool does an incredible job of conveying her inner turmoil and strength. Laura is clearly experiencing a transformation as the story unfolds, and her journey is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Cody Lightning, who plays Rey, is a study in stoicism, portraying a character who is at once vulnerable and, at the same time, guarded. The masculine energy of his character is complemented by Laura's more sensitive side, and the two actors work well together, building a believable relationship.

The movie also delves into issues of significance, such as social and cultural displacement, personal identity, loss, and healing. These themes are subtly interwoven into the fabric of the story, adding depth to the characters and the movie itself.

Craters of the Moon is a movie that will appeal to a more discerning audience and those who enjoy character-driven stories. It is not a typical Hollywood blockbuster but rather an indie movie that takes its time to build each character and establish a compelling narrative. The movie's pacing is deliberate, allowing the audience to absorb the scenery, create an emotional bond with the characters, and feel a sense of foreboding as the story progresses.

Overall, Craters of the Moon is an engaging and compelling movie that tells a story of personal transformation against a backdrop of wild and untamed nature. The movie will linger in your mind long after you've seen it and is one that you won't want to miss.

Craters of the Moon is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.