Watch The Apple Tree

The Apple Tree is a 2012 independent drama film written, directed, and starring Leon Acord. The film revolves around Joth (Acord), a recovering alcoholic who returns to the small town where he grew up following the death of his childhood friend. As he reunites with his old acquaintances and confronts his troubled past, Joth must learn to come to terms with the demons that drove him away from his hometown.

The film is a poignant exploration of addiction, loss, and redemption, capturing the struggles of those who attempt to rebuild their lives after grappling with their darkest demons. A stellar performance by Acord anchors the movie, portraying a deeply flawed but ultimately relatable character that viewers will find themselves rooting for from start to finish.

The opening scenes of the movie set the tone for what is to come. We see Joth engulfed in the depths of alcoholism, lifeless and disheveled, stumbling through his dingy apartment. His demons have taken over, and he is barely hanging on. However, Joth's life takes a turn when he hears the news of his childhood friend Daniel's death. Grief-stricken and desperate for redemption, Joth decides to return to his hometown of Pine Grove, a picturesque town perched on the California coast.

Upon his return, Joth is greeted with both warm and cold receptions. Some of his friends are happy to see him, while others remain resentful of his past behavior. Nevertheless, Joth is determined to make amends and sets out to make things right.

As he becomes reacquainted with his old acquaintances, Joth's past begins to catch up with him. He is forced to confront his demons and make amends for the mistakes he has made. Throughout his journey of self-discovery, Joth finds an unlikely ally in a young runaway named Henry (Roscoe Brandon), who gives him both a new perspective on life and a sense of purpose.

The film is beautifully shot, capturing the breathtaking landscapes of Pine Grove, which serves as both a peaceful haven and a painful reminder of Joth's past. The supporting cast brings depth and nuance to the film, with standout performances by Jerry Bornstein as Joth's childhood friend Max and Roscoe Brandon as the young runaway Henry.

One of the most notable aspects of the film is its exploration of addiction and recovery. The film does not shy away from the ugly realities of addiction, portraying the devastating impact it can have on both the addict and those around them. However, the film also shows that recovery is possible and that even the most seemingly hopeless cases can find redemption.

Overall, The Apple Tree is a heartfelt and emotionally resonant film that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll. Its themes of addiction, loss, and redemption are explored with sensitivity and nuance, and the performances are top-notch. It is truly a film worth watching.