Approaching Midnight

Approaching Midnight is a 2013 American drama crime thriller that unravels a compelling story of love, struggles, betrayal, and redemption. Directed and written by Sam Logan Khaleghi, the thriller explores the perils surrounding a small town experiencing immense socio-political changes. The film fosters an unrelenting tension that keeps the audience in a state of pulsating anticipation. Jana Kramer, Sam Logan Khaleghi, and Brandon T. Jackson star in this movie, providing commendable performances that form the backbone of the film.

The multi-layered narrative of Approaching Midnight revolves around Aspen played by Sam Logan Khaleghi, a war veteran returning home from Afghanistan after serving in the army. After the tragic death of his girlfriend Aspen struggles with post-traumatic stress and guilt. The girlfriend, a young woman named Aspen, is played by Jana Kramer, known for her breakout role in the television series, One Tree Hill.

Aspen grapples with the trauma of war and the untimely loss of his love. He returns to his hometown to find it under the grip of corrupt leadership. Upon realizing that his girlfriend's death was more than just an unfortunate incident, he embarks on a journey to unravel the truth, revealing dark secrets hidden beneath the surface. The grief-stricken veteran is driven by a thirst to bring justice for his deceased girlfriend.

As a war-veteran-turned-detective, Khaleghi's performance is underpinned by a profound intensity. He articulately embodies a range of emotions from despair and sorrow to tenacity and resolve, capturing the audience's sympathy as he embarks on his emotionally-draining pursuit of justice.

Jana Kramer's role, although set in the background of the plot, has a lasting impression on the narrative. She beautifully embodies an innocent, small-town girl with large dreams, cut short by an unnerving chain of events. Kramer's performance resonates long after her character disappears from the screen and becomes the major driving point for Aspen.

Brandon T. Jackson stars as Aspen's close ally. Jackson showcases an endearing performance of faithfulness and robust friendship. The two together unravel a world of crime, mystery, and corruption that is imploding their town.

Approaching Midnight keeps the audience glued with its crime thriller storyline, gripping suspense, and heart-tugging emotional turns. Director Sam Logan Khaleghi excellently explores the significant theme of social decay as he draws attention to issues like political corruption and legal malpractices. The socio-political commentary adds depth to the narrative, making 'Approaching Midnight' more than just an entertaining watch.

Khaleghi also effectively utilizes the cinematic canvas to depict the struggles of a war veteran. The film presents an honest portrayal of PTSD and the internal conflict veterans face when returning to civilian life. A significant portion of the film is dedicated to highlighting Aspen's struggle, making it evident that Sam Logan's direction is as much about filling an entertaining narrative as it is about expressing poignant themes.

The camera work in the movie deserves praise. The cinematography evokes a melancholic atmosphere that underscores the narrative's drama and tensions. The landscapes of the small town are showcased in an almost ethereal light, coupled with the dim lit scenes that reflect the looming darkness and mysteries.

The background score by Daniel D. Smith adds a haunting undertone to the movie. His melodious compositions effectively convey the ever-present tension, the eeriness of impending doom, and the sorrow of lost love.

Coming together, the well-written script, excellent performances, impeccable camera work, and the absorbing background score make Approaching Midnight a must-watch for any cinema lover. Approaching Midnight takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions as it delves into themes of love, loss, corruption, and redemption. It combines the thrill of a crime novel with the depth of a social drama, marking its unique space in the canvas of cinema. This film will lure you into its world and make you part of Aspen's journey, making you ponder long after the credits have rolled, making every minute of the watch worth it.