Watch Once Fallen

Once Fallen is a 2010 crime drama film directed by Ash Adams. The film follows the story of a man named Liam (Brian Presley), who has just been released from prison after serving a 12-year sentence for a crime he didn't commit. Liam faces several challenges as he tries to re-enter the world he left behind, including adjusting to life on the outside and dealing with the criminal underworld that he was once a part of.

The film opens in a prison yard, where Liam is seen running a lucrative drug operation behind bars. However, things take a turn for the worse when he is implicated in a murder that he did not commit. Liam spends the next 12 years of his life fighting to prove his innocence, but to no avail. Eventually, he is released from prison and sent back into a world that has changed drastically.

Upon his release, Liam seeks out his estranged father, Jack (Ed Harris), who has become a respected member of the police force. Jack is initially reluctant to help his son, but he eventually agrees to give him a chance. With Jack's help, Liam tries to find his footing in the outside world, but he struggles to find a job and make ends meet. He turns to his old friend Chance (Taraji P. Henson) for help and ends up getting involved in the drug trade once again.

As Liam starts to fall into old patterns, he's forced to confront the demons of his past. He must decide whether to continue down a dangerous path or finally break free from the cycle of violence that has defined his life. Liam also struggles to rebuild his relationship with his ex-girlfriend, Erin (Amy Madigan), and his teenage son, Chance's younger brother.

The film's portrayal of Liam's struggle to reintegrate into society is gripping and authentic. The character is complex and multi-dimensional, and viewers can relate to his desire to leave his past behind while also acknowledging the ties that bind him to his former life. Though the plot is at times predictable, the film's strong performances and affecting emotional moments make up for its shortcomings.

Brian Presley delivers a solid performance as Liam, convincingly portraying a man who is haunted by his past and desperate for a second chance. Ed Harris is equally impressive as Jack, bringing nuance and depth to a character who initially seems like a one-dimensional antagonist. Taraji P. Henson is also excellent in her role as Chance, adding a touch of fiery energy to the film.

The film's pacing is slow but deliberate, allowing for moments of introspection and character development that elevate the story beyond a typical crime drama. The cinematography is similarly understated, with muted colors and stark lighting that add to the film's atmospheric tone.

Overall, Once Fallen is a powerful and engaging crime drama that explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the struggle to break free from a life of crime. Its strong performances and realistic portrayal of life after incarceration make it a film that resonates long after the credits roll.

Once Fallen is a 2009 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.8.