The Anchorage

I feel obligated to leave a review. This is likely one of the worst movies I've watched in my nearly 50 years on planet earth. It was trying so hard to be edgy, use creative cinematic filming, and tell a unique story. What it ended up was a messy, frustrating, and boring film.

I feel like the other reviews have to be people on payroll. The movie's attempt at edginess felt forced, and the creative cinematography, while interesting in parts, couldn't salvage the overall plot. Characters lacked depth, making it hard to invest emotionally. The pacing left much to be desired, dragging on without purpose.

It's a shame because the concept had potential, but execution fell flat. The disjointed storytelling left me confused rather than engaged, and I found myself checking the time throughout. I wouldn't recommend this film to anyone, and I'm baffled by the positive reviews it's received.

Anchorage is a captivating indie gem that immerses viewers in a gritty, drug-fueled odyssey through an abandoned and decrepit western America. The film's style is reminiscent of "Spun" on a road trip. Its micro-budget brilliance is evident in the seamless integration of mostly abandoned locations, showcasing a prime example of resourceful filmmaking. The dynamic duo of Dakota Loesch and Scott Monahan deliver standout performances, breathing life into their characters' manic journey. Directorial attention to detail elevates this film to the pinnacle of independent cinema, earning it acclaim as one of the most relatable and poignant portrayals of addiction. Offering powerful commentary on the opioid crisis and the American dream, "Anchorage" is a must-see for fans of true art cinema, destined to inspire future filmmakers.

Sometimes, the most memorable cinematic experiences are the ones that leave us feeling uneasy, yet utterly captivated. "Wow, that was uncomfortable, in the best way possible," is the sentiment that perfectly encapsulates my reaction to this extraordinary indie film. From the very first scene to the closing credits, the performances were nothing short of stellar, weaving a narrative that had me completely engrossed. The power of this film lies in its ability to make you feel like an active participant rather than a passive observer. To put it simply, this film was absolutely phenomenal.

A true indie gem.

"Anchorage" is a captivating exploration of brotherhood, the American dream, and the long term effects of drug abuse. Anchored by outstanding performances from actor/director Scott Monahan and writer/actor Dakota Loesch, the film takes audiences on a visceral journey as two brothers, Jacob and John, embark on a daring road trip from Florida to Alaska, driven by a trunk full of opioids and a dream of striking it rich.

If you live in the UK, and are located near any of Curzon's wonderful cinemas, make sure you get in there and check this gem out! It releases today!

Monahan and Loesch's onscreen chemistry is magnetic, effectively portraying the complexities of brotherly love and their shared struggles. The stark contrast between their affectionate moments and their edgy personas, accentuated by tattoos and a penchant for violence, creates a riveting dynamic that keeps viewers engaged throughout.

Set against the backdrop of the expansive California desert, the film's visuals are a character in themselves. The arid landscapes, desolate ghost towns, and graffiti-adorned ruins emphasize the harshness of their journey, reflecting the internal and external challenges the brothers face. The choice of locations and cinematography by Erin Naifeh effectively capture the essence of their journey, adding depth to the narrative.

At its core, "Anchorage" encapsulates the spirit of the open road and the pursuit of aspirations. Yet, what sets it apart is its unflinching exploration of the drug-fueled facets of the brothers' journey.

As the duo traverses the vast expanse, they delve into a pharmacopeia of substances, their highs and lows mirroring their emotional and physical struggles. This drug-infused lens provides a gritty and unfiltered look at their world, unearthing both the euphoric moments of escape and the harsh consequences of their choices.

"Anchorage" beautifully captures the essence of the open road and the pursuit of a dream, all while exploring the intricacies of brotherhood. Monahan's direction and Loesch's screenplay provide a window into the lives of these two characters, making their experiences relatable and immersive. The film's strength lies in its ability to create an authentic emotional connection, allowing audiences to empathize with Jacob and John as they navigate a world of aspirations and adversities.

I'll keep this review short & sweet... much like Anchorage.

Grabs your attention from the first frame until the last. A film greater than the sum of its parts. A seemingly simple premise that says a lot about our society... without having to spell it out for the viewer.

Anchorage shows you what's possible with a solid idea and a limited budget.

Monahan and Loesch have incredible chemistry. They go together like lamb and tuna fish... or Jordan & Pippin if you prefer.

Runtime is great, so one more excuse to check it out (if you needed that extra push)

I'm excited to see what the filmmakers do next, whether it's another joint venture, solo... or one of each?