Watch The King's Highway

The King's Highway is a 2016 independent drama film that revolves around three sets of characters whose fates intertwine on a remote highway in Pennsylvania. Directed by Iman Sarrafizadeh, the movie is a compelling, character-driven drama that explores themes of love, loss, redemption, and forgiveness. The film predominantly follows the character of Maryann, played by Denise Basile, a young woman who is struggling to come to terms with the death of her father. She embarks on a road trip across Pennsylvania to scatter his ashes and discovers herself along the way. Her journey is paralleled by the story of an ex-con named Frank, played by Oscar Beisert, who is returning to the small town where he was once incarcerated to confront his past and make amends.

The third storyline follows a married couple, Don and Cindy, played by Brendan Boyle and Jessica Savage, who are struggling to keep their relationship afloat. Don, who is a recovering alcoholic, is on the verge of relapse, and Cindy is grappling with the decision of whether or not to leave him.

As Maryann, Frank, and Don and Cindy progress along the same highway, their stories begin to intersect in unexpected and poignant ways. The characters’ experiences of love, loss, and regret, as well as the rugged landscapes they traverse, provide a powerful backdrop for their emotional journeys.

One of the most striking aspects of The King's Highway is the stunning cinematography. The filmmakers make use of Pennsylvania's natural beauty to create a vivid visual landscape that perfectly complements the film's introspective tone. The camera lingers on majestic mountain ranges, verdant forests, and tranquil lakes, capturing the subtle shifts in mood and atmosphere along the way.

Another remarkable aspect of the movie is its thoughtful and nuanced characterization. The lead actors deliver powerful performances that are rooted in a deep understanding of their characters. Denise Basile, in particular, gives a memorable turn as Maryann, conveying the grief and confusion of a young woman still coming to terms with the loss of her father.

Oscar Beisert’s portrayal of Frank is equally impressive - he's gritty, yet deeply empathetic, as a man trying to move beyond his criminal past. Meanwhile, Brendan Boyle and Jessica Savage deliver heartfelt performances as the couple whose marriage is on the rocks. They sensitively depict the pain and struggles of a relationship that is teetering on the brink of collapse.

Overall, The King's Highway is a finely crafted, emotionally powerful film that deserves to be seen. It’s a masterful exploration of our fundamental human experiences, told through the lens of three distinct and compelling characters. The movie is a testament to the power and potential of independent filmmaking and is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates thoughtful storytelling and stunning cinematography.

The King's Highway is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.9.