Watch West of Her

West of Her is an independent drama movie directed by Ethan Warren and released in 2016. The movie tells the story of Dan, played by Ryan Caraway, a young artist and wanderer who sets out on a cross-country road trip in search of meaning and purpose in his life. Along the way, he meets an enigmatic woman named Jane, played by Kelsey Siepser, who is also traveling alone and searching for something elusive.

The two travelers form a connection over their shared isolation and lack of direction, and they begin exploring the land together. They traverse remote wilderness areas, encounter strange people and experiences, and slowly open up to each other about their hopes, dreams, and fears. As they meander westward, Dan and Jane's relationship deepens, and they must confront their inner demons and unanswered questions.

Throughout the movie, Dan's journey is often interspersed with personal recordings, reflecting his artistic pursuits, that he sends back to his girlfriend Lacy, played by Halli Herzog. It becomes apparent through these recordings that while Dan is on this journey, he is also struggling with the rift between his artistic ambitions and the reality of making a living. The recordings also give insight into the character of Lacy, who is shown to be devoted yet fraught with insecurities and doubts.

As Dan and Jane continue their journey, they are challenged by unpredictable events and difficult decisions, which put their relationship and the purpose of their trip to the test. Eventually, they arrive at the destination of their westward journey, a bleak and remote desert area. Here, they must make a decision that will change their lives forever.

West of Her is a deeply personal and introspective film that explores themes of self-discovery, existentialism, and the search for meaning in life. Through stunning cinematography and a haunting musical score, the movie captures the stark beauty and vastness of America's wilderness, creating a sense of awe and otherworldliness that juxtaposes the intimate emotional journey of its protagonists.

Ryan Caraway delivers a strong performance as Dan, the introspective artist who is searching for his place in the world. His character development is subtle and nuanced, revealing slowly the often-fiery emotions beneath his quiet demeanor. Kelsey Siepser is equally captivating as Jane, a complex character whose motivations and struggles are not always clear. Halli Herzog rounds out the cast with a touching portrayal of Lacy, an underdeveloped role that is nevertheless given weight by her layered performance.

In conclusion, West of Her is a contemplative and thought-provoking movie that will leave the viewer questioning the nature of their own journey through life. While it may not appeal to fans of fast-paced action or feel-good romance, the film offers a wonderfully introspective look at the human condition and the search for purpose in a seemingly meaningless world.

West of Her is a 2018 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4.