The River Thief

This film was simple, yet creative, and quite well done. Wilson's style was, as in everything he does, very distinctive and pleasing. I enjoy the way he makes each story (whether it be book or film) have an individual and interesting cultural setting. The characters were properly developed and interesting, especially taking into consideration the slightly shorter than average length of the film. The twist ending actually surprised me quite a bit and that is impressive, as I (apparently wrongly) assumed I was familiar enough with the director's style to not let something like that slip up on me.

There were a few things that were a bit rough around the edges, but overall I was pleased with this film and would likely watch it again. There is clearly has a talent for filmography here, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to quality, Mr. Wilson. I hope to see more films of yours in the future.

The story takes place in an ordinary small town surrounded by extraordinary riverside country. The characters are down-to-earth. Some may consider the grandpa to be the least realistic, but he actually reminded me of someone I know. (Actually, I've known a few old people throughout my life who knew how to love through their straightforwardness.)

But this movie is more than entertainment. Listen to the end and the message should be inescapable, even for those who generally turn their brains off when staring at a screen.

Ever look inside an uncovered electrical panel? Looks ho-hum, but dare to meddle and - zzzzz-ow!

I dare you to watch this film.

"The River Thief" has a beautiful message portrayed in a powerful way. The first feature film written and directed by bestselling author N.D. Wilson, "The River Thief" is produced with excellence. The cinematography is gorgeous. The acting is strong and believable, and the characters have a depth that entices one to care about what happens to them.

Parents should know this film could be rated PG-13, as it contains a few scenes of graphic violence and some mild profanity. The teens and adults in our family give "The River Thief" two thumbs up, and hope N.D. Wilson will create many more films in the future!

I sorta hate most movies now days. But Jesus Christ, The River Thief sucks. Why doesn't anyone even try to make good movies anymore? I watched the Oscars last night and kinda just wanted to beat up all those talent-less dickholes. Hero-worship stupidity at its best. Anyways, this movie sucked for a lot of reasons, but mostly I hate everything about the film industry.

I found this film because I have enjoyed Wilson's novels. Each of his novels features a full, rich, earthy depiction of some town or place in the United States. When I read these books I feel these places and when watching this film, I could feel the town, the river, and the regular people who lived there.

The actors were fine, but a couple of performances were weak. Probably, the acting was the weakest component of the film.

The cinematography was a high point. I think this is where that earthy, tangible feeling for the river town mostly came from.

The music was refreshing and accomplished its purpose. I always enjoy a movie that departs from the standard orchestral score.

I thought the writing was mostly good and the dialog felt natural to me. The story is a good one and heads to places and touches themes that you aren't expecting and in a way that is touching and quite real to me. Some viewers and reviewers may see one character or another as unrealistic, but sometimes that's because you've never met someone like that. To me, the characters are for real. Most of them could easily be someone I know.

I enjoyed this feature debut from writer/producer N. D. Wilson and I find myself looking forward to what he has coming next.