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River is a 2015 independent drama film directed by Jamie M. Dagg and written by Dagg and Christopher Ross. The movie stars June Greyson as John Lake, a doctor practicing medicine in Southeast Asia, who becomes embroiled in a web of deceit and violence after attempting to defend a woman from an attacker. The film opens with John Lake working at a hospital in Laos, where he witnesses a group of men violently attack a young woman in a bar. He intervenes and ends up killing one of the attackers in self-defense. Fearing for his safety, John flees and goes on the run in order to evade the authorities.

Throughout the movie, John makes several attempts to leave Laos and return home to the United States. However, each attempt is thwarted by various obstacles, including corrupt officials, dangerous criminals, and treacherous terrain. Along the way, John meets several other characters who become involved in his journey, including a French journalist named Mélanie (played by Annie Hamilton), and an American expat named Gary (played by Kelley Rae O'Donnell).

As John's journey unfolds, it becomes clear that he is not simply trying to escape the consequences of his actions. He is also grappling with deeper questions about his own identity and the nature of violence. Throughout the movie, John experiences vivid flashbacks of his time serving in the military, and it becomes apparent that his experiences in combat have left a deep psychological scar.

One of the most compelling aspects of River is the way it explores themes of identity and morality in the context of a rapidly changing world. The film takes place in Southeast Asia at a time when the region was undergoing significant political and economic upheaval. As a result, many of the characters in the movie are struggling to find their place in this new and uncertain world.

Another standout aspect of the movie is the cinematography, which is stunningly beautiful throughout. The film was shot on location in Laos, and the lush green landscapes and misty mountain vistas create a sense of otherworldly beauty that is both haunting and alluring.

In terms of performances, the cast of River delivers strong and nuanced performances across the board. Greyson in particular is compelling as John, conveying a sense of quiet intensity that makes him both sympathetic and dangerous. Hamilton's Mélanie is also a standout, bringing a sense of intelligence and grit to a character who could have easily been relegated to a damsel in distress role.

Overall, River is a gripping and thought-provoking film that examines the legacy of violence and the struggle to find a sense of identity in a rapidly changing world. With stunning visuals, strong performances, and a taut, suspenseful plot, it is a film that will likely stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

River is a 2016 art house & international movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes.