Great Lakes

It's too bad this film wasn't scraped a forth time. The idea might have been good, but it wasn't carried out in the script, in most of the acting, or the editing. If this is what Minnesota is offering up now, maybe it's time to close up shop. Skip this film and save 90 minutes of your time.

This film is quickly becoming a cult classic among my friends and myself. It definitely has a low-budget feel and some of the acting from a few minor characters could use work, but it has that independent low-budget charm that has become so popular amongst those who prefer to delve into the finer points of film and shy away from the high-budget plastic of Hollywood. If you prefer a bang bang shoot 'em up flick or if you're always waiting for the lead female to take her clothes off, this movie WILL make you yawn. If you're looking for substance, character development, and humor that ranges from subtle (why are they sitting the middle of the road??) to intense (I can't give this one away), you'll appreciate this film.

Great Lakes is a great dark comedy that combines the sorrows of Dara's life along with her love for the quirky Noble. Takes advantage of the beautiful scenery of Lake Superior and shows the true beauty of the Northern Midwest. Very well written and well acted. Off the top of my head I know it has won a few awards including best screenplay in the SMMASH Film Festival back in the Twin Cities. I'd like to see James Byrne get an opportunity to work with a major studio here in Hollywood. From the other comments I've read, it seems that Frozenstate has poor taste in movies. Tisk tisk. I definitely recommend this film if you are looking for a good indy flick, or just a good movie in general.

If one is in the mood for a film that thinks outside the box, this is the piece for you. With witty dialogue and atypical filming style, writer and director, James Byrne has proved himself to be a visionary filmmaker with this truly original piece of work. Some words that jump to mind to describe 'Great Lakes' are "kooky", filled with "zany escapdes", and "uniquely hilarious". This film is diamond in the rough, especially for those who hold a special place in their heart for Minnesota, which is a character in and of itself. Watch for a special cameo appearance of the Minnesota pickle himself, Gedney Tutle, in a tour de force portrayal of an undertaker. A not to be missed indie comedy.

"Great Lakes" was really funny! I like road movies, and I think that Great Lakes gives a good feel for the region, without being corny like Fargo. I like so many of the locations and roadside stops, and it carried a sense of adventure. The movie has so much great back-and-forth dialogue.

At a preview in Minnesota, James Byrne talked about how the project had been scrapped several times over four or five years (amazing!). He talked about finding his cast and getting the picture made. He also talked a bit about the different midwestern accents in the project and that the woman who played Dara was from North Dakota. The two leads have really good chemistry and James seemed like a very good director, a good person to work with.

I just wanted to say how exciting and inspiring it was to be there to see the show. It was really a great production, and I was really glad to be there to see it!

-WWS