Making Peace

We all have experiences from our past that hounds us. It fuels us to unjustifiably control everything around us, fearing that if we don’t, it will lead us back to everything that is wrong with our lives and end up with the worst that we could ever think of. Today’s film review is unlike any other. It gave me a memorable screening experience, and I can’t wait to tell you more about it. The title of our focus film is “Making Peace”  a short drama directed by Judah Ray.

“Making Peace” introduced me to Janis. An agitated female whose car broke down in the middle of the desert. Adamantly determined to get on her way, she stopped a vehicle to hitch a ride out of the desert. A car driven by a soldier pulled over to give her a ride. While on their way, they share stories of their life, but Janis started to get intense and paranoid. She pointed a gun at the driver Dennis, who seemed unmoved by her actions. He instead decided to learn more about her and what she is going through. And you’ll never guess the shocking revelations and events that happened along the way. But I bet my job on this that you wouldn’t be disappointed.

There are so many things I love about this movie. And I don’t even know where to start. It has the perfect formula for delivering a remarkable drama that will baffle your mind and connect with your emotions. So in no random order, first, is the sequencing and phasing of the story. I am a sucker for these types of movies that makes me beg for a back story. And at the same time gets me thinking of what is about to happen next and how it will lead me. The suspense is stirring the moment it began and was sustained every step of the way until the ending. And it was SUPERB!

Second, the cinematography is incredibly impressive! I love how it defined the current setting and the way it added flavor and drama, particularly, coming towards the end of the story. Where it became like a dreamlike transition towards a feeling of acceptance and emancipation. It was a beautiful and alleviating scene that I appreciate a lot. Next is, of course, the story. Its creator Judah Ray did a phenomenal job writing the plot and masterfully delivering it into a movie. His vision and how he extracted the intensity and emotions with every scene is truly award-worthy caliber directing. And last but definitely not the least, the cast. The diversity, the character, the acting prowess was indeed notable. Kourtney George, Dante Basco, and Nathaniel Buzolic left me speechless. I was wowed with their performance. The authenticity of the scenes between Nathaniel Buzolic and Kourtney George was emotionally grappling. Kourtney George was superb in giving mystery and intensity to her character Janis. While Nathaniel Buzolic, whom I grew up watching, showcases his exceptional depth in drama and maturity in acting; as he unravels the true identity of his character Dennis. Both actors were able to channel powerful emotions and are undeniably worthy of acting awards for this film.

I couldn’t ask for more about this movie. It is concise, beautiful, and excellently delivered. Undeniably, one of the strongest contenders in the short drama category. I am very fortunate to have screened this film and be able to share how amazing it is. If you see premiers for this movie, grab the opportunity right away because you’ll surely get more than your money’s worth. Amazing, Amazing movie! An award-winning package I definitely loved watching! Cheers and Congratulations to director Judah Ray and the team of Making Peace!