Father of Nations

I really enjoyed this film. Super thought-provoking. Post apocalyptic isn't my number one genre... But this would be the best film I've ever seen of it's type. Reminded me a bit of the film "Children of Men". If you're looking for something shallow or pure entertainment you might be disappointed... this asked a lot of deep questions and contained thought provoking subject matter. It seems pretty appropriate for the season we are living in where so much of society's future feels uncertain. The ending was surprising but hopeful. I thought it was well acted, with moments of humour. Lots of flashing back-and-forth to different time periods, so you have to pay attention. There was action interspersed with in-depth conversation. I think this film gets even better with multiple viewings because you understand it more and the layers and intricacies of it. The cinematography was really beautiful. I love the fact that it's an Alberta made film!

Beautiful cinematography. Aspects of the film reminded me of The Road and The Book of Eli. There are some intense action scenes in the film, yet the overall story feels more character-driven than plot-driven. This film is a conversation that explores the various ways that people confront the breaking down of society and their search for meaning. There was some exposition at the start of the film and the pace picked up after that. I appreciated the unexpected comedic moments in the film. Great soundtrack. I am blown away that this film was made by a young production company. It's scale is epic.

The photography was exceptional; the settings were realistic for a dystopian situation. Hilda, Alberta served well (as in the community coming together) in making it seem like a run down existence.

The monologues were well written and the main roles were well acted but some minor actor deliveries were stilted. The editing was intriguing (moving back and forth in time). However the story was thin; the movie was too long.

Cyril Anderst had less of a role than he did in "Where Were We in '63" and the same amount of dialogue. The same old house was in the movie but in one scene it burned down; it won't be in any future films.

This made in Alberta film blew me away - I wasn't sure what to expect but I loved the characters, the original story, the thread of hope that kept them going. I loved that this movie was unique and so real. The conversations between characters were authentic and the emotions so relatable. The landscape backdrops are amazing, it never feels like you are seeing a fake movie set. The origninal background music is beautifully made for this story, not overwhelming or distracting, it fits just right. I've rarely seen conversations about faith in film done so well, so realistically.

I highly recommend watching this one, it is truly a remarkable film.

It is a moving portrayal of perseverance in the face of hopelessness. Of choosing faith over fear and doubt. Awe-inspiring cinematic landscapes. The incredible heartstring pulling acting. And thought provoking script.

The filmmakers were obviously inspired by Terrence Malick's masterpiece but spun their story into the territory of apocalyptic action.

Although the poetic writing had content worthy of meditation, sometimes it stalled the story or retold aspects that were already understood. Despite pulling from a depth of literature and philosophic thinkers, when every word is important, it exhausts the viewer and can fall flat. The interspersement of action and story propelling information saved this film from being a beautiful letdown. Now it can stand on it's feet and have something to say. I'll add this to my list of great Canadian filmmaking and recommend anyone to view it for both the masterclass in cinematography and its ability to carve into the hallow spaces inside us all that calls out to something outside and says "Why?".