Watch Finding North

Finding North (1998) is a dramatic film that tells the story of Rhonda Portelli (played by Wendy Makkena), a struggling actress who finds herself facing unexpected challenges in her life. The movie explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth, as Rhonda navigates the murky waters of life in New York City. The film begins with Rhonda attending an audition for a Broadway show, which she ends up not getting. Feeling down and out, she decides to take a walk through Central Park, where she meets a homeless man named Charlie (played by Jonathan Walker). Charlie is a Vietnam War veteran who has been living on the streets for years, and he strikes up a conversation with Rhonda, asking her for some spare change.

Despite her initial reservations, Rhonda and Charlie begin to form a bond, as she learns more about his life and the struggles he has faced. She even invites him to stay over at her apartment, which she shares with her boyfriend, Carl (played by John Benjamin Hickey). Over the course of the film, Rhonda must confront her own limitations and biases, as she grapples with the complexities of homelessness and poverty in America.

One of the central themes of the film is the idea of finding one's true north, both literally and metaphorically. For Rhonda, this means discovering her own sense of purpose and direction in life, amid the chaos and uncertainty of the city. As she grows closer to Charlie, she begins to see the world in a new light, and learns to appreciate the simple joys of life, like a warm meal or a kind word.

Despite the heavy subject matter, the film is also infused with moments of humor and levity, particularly in the scenes between Rhonda and Carl. The two have a playful banter that reflects the ups and downs of their relationship, as they navigate the challenges of living in a cramped apartment in the city.

Overall, Finding North is a poignant and thought-provoking film that raises important questions about the nature of homelessness, poverty, and the human condition. It features strong performances from all three leads, particularly Wendy Makkena, who captures the complexity and nuance of Rhonda's character with sensitivity and depth. While it may not be a feel-good movie in the traditional sense, it offers a powerful and ultimately uplifting message about the importance of compassion and empathy in a world that can often be harsh and unforgiving.