Canadian cinema has long forged a synergy between custom and culture, expanding a national identity of dramatic quirk. Finding that balance without “Americanizing” continues to spur conversations amongst industry veterans and emerging filmmakers, and there is a new film creating some dialogue in Canada—Moon Point.
Moon Point presents young characters and places them in not so typical scenarios.
Don’t worry it’s not a Final Destination 7 if that’s what you're thinking.
The lost 'twenty-something' year old is seemingly developed throughout the film. We are introduced to Darryl (Nick McKinlay), the “what is my purpose” kind of guy who doesn’t seem to have much going for him outside of his head. Through flashbacks the audience also sees a young and cute Darryl softening up to a girl named Sarah Cherry (Kristen Gutoskie).
Fast forward to present day and Darryl is seen in his family’s company, ridiculed by his soon-to-be married cousin and nursing a desire to do, well, something. Without warning Sarah Cherry pops up on the TV speaking about a horror film she is starring in at Moon Point, a town nearby. Darryl immediately feels this is his time to reconnect with his lost love and what better way to do so then to trek hundreds of miles to Moon Point via a wagon and his best bud, Femur (Kyle Mac). Yes, a wagon.
Along the way the two guys come in contact with a rebel-like chick named Kristin (Paula Brancati from Degrassi) whose car has broken down. Soon Kristin is the third musketeer on the quest to find Sarah Cherry, but not without some added sass.
The three connect over childish antics, inebriated disclosures, road blocks and emotional spats, balancing the' feel good' with the dramatic. Charming and thoughtful, the scenes emit a nostalgic blanket that mirrors youthful innocence quite effectively.
There are some key standout scenes including the meeting of AA rejects, Femur’s breakdown and the budding relationship between Kristin and Femur.
In my opinion, Femur was definitely the most relatable and likeable character in the entire film. Jessica Holmes’ cheeky cameo was also a nice touch.
If you’re an indie carnivore in any, Moon Point is worth your attention. It will make you smile.
Moon Point is the first feature film distributed through Indiecan Entertainment. Indiecan Entertainment is a new distribution company seeking to help deliver Canadian indie films.
The Moon Point soundtrack includes Canadian acts like City and Colour, The Danger Bees, Michou, Basia Bulat and many more.
For more information on this film, head here.
Kathryn Kyte - Kathryn is a freelance journalist and writer, specializing in film, music and culture.
