Middle of Nowhere

Middle Of Nowhere is perhaps as good as a low-budget indie can get, and also a textbook example of a Sundance competition film. It has a solid screenplay, aptly selected melancholy tones/music, long pauses, a couple of twists and a camera trick, etc., but nothing evasive to turn off the audience. Every aspect of being a good small narrative film is pretty much covered.

Quite naturally, the most valuable asset of such a film is the chemistry of a committed cast. Omari Hardwick is reasonably stoic and almost possesses the angst of a Denzel Washington character who has been pushed around too long. Emayatzy Corinealdi, as the film's emotional core, convincingly depicts a devoted wife's slow transition in priorities. With her rich experience in both cinema and TV, there's little wonder how Lorraine Toussaint goes instinctively maternal towards two younger actresses and leads them to fairly palpable family dynamics.

This is a relatively simple tale of a young wife who teeters between naivety and strength, but the skillful and effective storytelling supported by good performances offers a decently enjoyable viewing experience.