They say that people can love so much it hurts. I believe this to be true and I believe that we have all, at one point or another, loved so much it hurts. Sometimes it is the hard relationships that have the biggest payout, whether it be in learning who we truly are or getting to be with our soul mate forever. On The Horizon is a beautiful film that puts a very difficult and hard relationship, and where those involved love so much it hurts, under a microscope. It is a film that all of us can relate to, because, we have all lived it at some point and time. The film uses a brilliant score and very aesthetic pleasing and breathtaking landscape to evoke emotion throughout the film. There is not a moment that goes by that one is not entranced in the relationship between Casey and Elissa. Their pain, love, and lust leap off the screen in a vivid way; and given that this film was low budget, that in of itself is a spectacular thing to see. Payant was able to capture the beauty of Utah and the stunning scenery of France all the while telling a story of loving so much it actually hurts. Tyler Johnson is magnificent as Casey, he allows the audience to not only see what is happening on screen, but more importantly, allowing us to feel what he is feeling. He takes the audience on the roller coaster that is his relationship with Elissa and how he lives so differently when he is with her vs. to without her. Sandy Leddin is fantastic in the role of Elissa. We both love and hate her and is what some might call a bitch; however, Leddin, easily allows the audience to see how much this character is actually hurting and how she is trying so hard to fight her true feelings for anyone or anything that she just continues the cycle of hurting herself and those that love her. Elissa is edgy, mysterious and frail; and Leddin does a fabulous job of navigating all those with ease. Notable mentions are Jessica Morris, who plays Amy, so fantastically that it hurts. What a great talent. Another notable mention is Kristen Kerr who plays Elissa's best friend. Kerr is perfection as Kate and I could not imagine anyone else playing this role. And the beautiful Jade Harlow who plays Christine so wonderfully that you may believe she just might be the one to ease Casey from his pain of loving someone so much it hurts, if only she is given the chance. Hats off to Payant who used his resources well, directed a beautiful film, and told a magnificent story of love and life. I highly recommend finding this film and watching it. You will not be let down.
