Cost of a Soul

Cost of a Soul is a captivating and intriguing drama from 2010 that delves deep into the grimy underbelly of urban life, bringing to life a story of redemption, violence, and moral conflict. The lead characters' riveting performances make this film a deeply affecting portrayal of lives lived on the fringes of society, anchored by the performances of the talents Chris Kerson, Will Blagrove, and Mark Borkowski.

Directed by debutant Sean Kirkpatrick, the film presents a gritty and realistic story set in the throbbing heart of North Philadelphia's run-down, crime-ridden streets. Kirkpatrick's brilliant direction presents an unflinching look at the dangerous lifestyles that its lead characters stumble into - a world characterized by violence, corruption, poverty, and desperation. This uncompromising narrative makes it a compelling watch for anyone interested in thought-provoking cinema.

In Cost of a Soul, Kerson and Blagrove portray Tommy Donahue and DD Davis, respectively, both ex-soldiers who have recently returned home from a terrifying tour in the Middle East. These two individuals from North Philadelphia find themselves disillusioned and traumatized from their experiences and have difficulty re-adjusting to their old lives in their crime-infested neighborhood.

Tommy Donahue, a seasoned military man portrayed with the perfect degree of intensity and vulnerability by Chris Kerson, finds himself drawn back into the dangerous world he had hoped to leave behind. Struggling to find work and provide for his sick wife and newborn daughter, his old ties to the city's seedy underbelly pull him back into a life of crime.

On the other hand, DD Davis, a young man desperate to break free from his past as portrayed by the dedicated Will Blagrove, is forced to confront his old neighborhood's brutality. Having grown up in this neighborhood, Davis returns to find his brother embroiled in gang violence. Torn between the harsh realities of the streets he left behind and the horrors of war, Davis is caught in a fight for his family's survival.

Caught in these separate but eerily parallel worlds of chaos and despair, Donahue and Davis face the harsh realities of everyday urban life with their unique perspectives shaped by their shared experiences in combat.

Mark Borkowski enhances the overall narrative with his brilliant supporting role, adding layers to the conflicts that keep viewers invested throughout the film. He delivers a memorable performance that underscores the film's dark themes and provides a stark contrast to the main characters' lives.

The film's evocative cinematography plays a significant role in setting its dark and intense atmosphere. Scenes are shot in a realistic manner that captivates the audience, drawing them into the bleak world the Director endeavored to portray. Similarly, the film's original score subtly enhances the tension, blending seamlessly with the scenarios unfolding on screen, thus contributing to the film's overall gripping nature.

Cost of a Soul serves as a poignant exploration of the struggles faced by these returning veterans and the systemic cycle of poverty and violence that plagues low-income urban neighborhoods. Kirkpatrick's narrative is calculated and raw, stimulating discussions about PTSD, crime, poverty, societal hierarchies, and familial obligations, among other things. These themes are stitched together neatly, thus creating a riveting film that addresses these timely and relevant issues.

In conclusion, Cost of a Soul is an intense, thought-provoking film that tugs at your heartstrings while taking you on a journey through the dark underbelly of an inner-city neighborhood. The movie's standout performances, coupled with its realistic depiction of issues faced by returning soldiers, makes it a compelling drama worth exploring. With its intriguing narrative and authentic performances, it leaves viewers contemplating the true cost of a soul.