A Long Way Off

A Long Way Off is a 2014 American drama film directed by Michael Davis and Jon Macy. The film features a strong cast including Robert Davi, Edie McClurg, and John Diehl, among others. The film is a modern reimagining of the biblical parable of the Prodigal Son and is set in contemporary rural America. It follows the journey of young and ambitious Jake Abraham, as he departs from his father’s farm to pursue his dream of success and fortune in the city.

Jake (Jason Burkey) is a young man fascinated with the idea of wealth and success. He dreams of the hustle and bustle of the corporate world, seemingly miles away from the quiet life of his father's farm. Inspired by his lofty dreams, he convinces his considerate father, Mr. Abraham (Robert Davi), to give him his inheritance early, despite his father's reservations. The film portray Mr. Abraham as a man of strong faith and a deep love for his son. He reluctantly agrees to Jake's request, displaying both disappointment and concern.

The movie continues as Jake leaves his younger brother Aaron (Sean Hannity), his father and their farm, his home, to seek out the greener pastures he believes the city to hold. The city is a stark contrast to his rural upbringing, exciting yet daunting. Jake is ecstatic about the new opportunities and possibilities awaiting him.

He quickly becomes enamoured with the charm and thrill of city life, and falls into a crowd whose notions of success revolve around easy money, flashy cars, and lavish parties. Jake is caught up in the allure of luxurious living and the deceptive glamour of the city, sinking his teeth into a lifestyle that strikes as wayward to the one he was brought up in. Jake's description as the indulgent son on a wrong path is well matched by Edie McClurg's character, Mrs. Grey, who represents a voice of wisdom and caution in the whirlwind of Jake's unruly city life.

As Jake's journey unfolds, he begins to realize that the road to success isn't as straightforward as he first assumed, and that his reckless choices come with dire consequences. Amidst the pressure of survival in the city, Jake finds himself yearning for the comfort and safety of his father's farm. Jake's struggle to find his place in the world forms the emotional crux of the movie. His ups and downs, his moments of thrill and despair, reflect the journey of countless young souls who, driven by dreams of prosperous futures, often find themselves stranded on rocky paths.

Parallel to Jake’s narrative, the film follows the lives of the people Jake has left behind. John Diehl's impressive portrayal of Rooster, one of the stalwarts of the Abraham farm, aids in juxtaposing the contrasting realities of farm life and city living. The farm’s tranquil pace and grounded characters contrast strikingly with Jake’s tumultuous city life.

A Long Way Off is a beautifully presented tale of a young man's journey through adventure, temptation, disillusionment, and ultimately, redemption. It's an exploration of the struggles wrought by ambition, the harsh realities of life, and the powerful force of familial love. Despite being set in contemporary times, the film successfully brings one of the most well-known parables to life and gives it a fresh new spin, maintaining the core essence of the original story.

This film is a heartfelt tale that offers insight into the challenges of modern-life aspirations and serves as a reminder of the endearing power of love, forgiveness, and home. It is an apt reflection of how material ambitions often drive people away from their roots, only to eventually help them discover their need for the natural and genuine simplicities of life.

Overall, A Long Way Off is a modern-day take on an age-old story that will resonate with people across generations. It's a film about life's detours and choices and the ultimate comfort of returning to one’s roots. Good for anyone looking for a heartwarming narrative of personal growth and redemption.