Watch The Frontier
- NR
- 2015
- 1 hr 28 min
-
5.5 (880)
The Frontier is a thrilling neo-noir film that was released in 2015, directed by Oren Shai. This indie movie features an impressive cast, led by Jocelin Donahue, Kelly Lynch, and Jim Beaver. The story revolves around Laine (Donahue), a young woman who comes to a remote motel in the desert seeking refuge. She seems to be on the run from something, and her unease is palpable as she settles into her room. The motel is run by a tough woman named Luanne (Lynch), who has a complicated relationship with her more mild-mannered partner, Lee (Beaver).
As the night progresses, we are introduced to a cast of colorful characters who come and go from the motel. There is an aggressive biker gang, a sleazy lawyer, a naive young couple, and a mysterious cowboy. Each character has their own secrets and motivations, and as they interact with each other, tensions rise.
The Frontier is a film that is very much about the setting. The desert landscape is oppressive and unforgiving, and the motel itself feels like a refuge in the middle of nowhere. The characters are all outsiders in some way, and the location brings them together in a strange and dangerous way.
The cinematography of The Frontier is particularly noteworthy. The film was shot on 16mm film, giving it a classic, gritty feel that harkens back to the golden age of noir. The use of color is also striking, with vivid oranges, blues, and greens popping against the dusty brown of the desert.
At its core, The Frontier is a film about desperation. Every character is struggling in some way, whether it's Laine running from her past, Luanne trying to keep her business afloat, or the biker gang trying to make a quick buck. The stakes are high for everyone, and the film expertly ratchets up the tension until it reaches a violent and thrilling climax.
Jocelin Donahue delivers a standout performance as Laine. She is a compelling presence on screen, balancing vulnerability and strength with ease. Kelly Lynch and Jim Beaver also excel as the proprietors of the motel. Lynch in particular is a force to be reckoned with, playing Luanne as a tough but empathetic character who is doing her best in difficult circumstances.
The supporting cast is also noteworthy. Izabella Miko and Jamie Harris are particularly memorable as members of the biker gang. Their performances are over-the-top in the best way, adding a touch of dark humor to the film.
Overall, The Frontier is a stylish and thrilling film that will satisfy fans of noir and indie cinema. The film's expertly crafted atmosphere and strong performances make it a must-see for anyone interested in the genre.
The Frontier is a 2015 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.