Desolation

The fascinating blend of drama, horror, and thriller elements are in full force in the 2017 movie, Desolation, directed by Sam Patton and written by Matt Anderson and Michael Larson-Kangas. The film's engaging story features a trio of stirring performances by Toby Nichols, Jaimi Paige, and Alyshia Ochse. Packed with a pulsating storyline, the movie draws viewers into a world rising in tension and never fails to keep hearts racing.

The storyline primarily revolves around a mother-daughter duo, Abby (Jaimi Paige) and Sam (Alyshia Ochse), who are trying to cope with the loss of their husband and father, respectively. Alongside Sam's best friend, Nick (Toby Nichols), they embark on a visually stunning, emotionally charged wilderness journey into the vast terrains of the Adirondack Mountains, aiming to scatter the deceased's ashes at his beloved spot, thereby offering him a worthy tribute. Their intimate, emotional journey soon takes an unexpected, sinister twist.

As Abby, Sam, and Nick venture deeper into the verdant yet isolated trails of the green mountains filled with awe-striking pines, they unknowingly catch the attention of a mysterious backpacker (Claude Duhamel). The film swiftly transitions from an emotional trajectory to an edge-of-your-seat experience once this foreboding figure starts following them in the wilderness with unknown intentions. As harmless as this stranger initially appears, his sinister, unnerving presence gradually punctures the trio's serene outdoor journey, turning it into a chilling and fearful encounter.

Toby Nichols impressively plays Nick, a typical teenager facing struggles adjusting to the harsh realities of life, providing the film with a relatable, empathetic character. His superlative performance further emphasizes the heavy emotional palette of the narrative, showcasing a range of emotions — from vulnerability to determination — that resonate well with viewers.

Jaimi Paige as the mourning Abby gives a truly compelling performance, reinforcing the anxiety, sadness, and fear that an individual experiences while dealing with such personal tragedy. Abby's character is both strong and vulnerable, portraying how a person can encounter various phases of emotions before coming to terms with their loss.

Alyshia Ochse shines brightly in her critical role as Sam, impressing audiences with her youthful vivacity and raw display of emotions. Her heartbreaking performance brings a vital layer of sensitivity to the film, making the audience root for her and the other characters.

Further, the captivating cinematography lays foundations for eye-catching visuals that beautifully depict the allure of the Adirondack Mountains, creating an immersive experience. The movie skillfully incorporates the natural landscapes into its storytelling, using the contrast of the tranquil beauty of the wilderness with the characters' terror-infused journey adding another layer to the film's suspenseful premise.

The film’s suspenseful narrative, mixed with the effective use of the wilderness as not just a setting but almost a character in its own right, works perfectly to create a horror movie that appeals to the audience's psychological fears, leaving them on tenterhooks until the end.

Desolation is a skillful exhibition of storytelling set amidst the tension between grief, fear, survival instincts, and the desolate vastness of wilderness. It impressively highlights the significant contrast between the peaceful mountain backdrop and the film's tense, thriller aspects. This juxtaposition amplifies the thriller vibes and the terror of the unknown lurking in nature, which can prove to be more petrifying than man-made threats.

In conclusion, Desolation is an emotionally driven, psychological thriller, combining elements of despair, hope, and raw tension among the wilderness of the Adirondack mountains. It focuses on the human struggle to deal with loss and the will to survive in hostile circumstances, even when things spiral towards the edge of terror. It's a film that will keep viewers perched on the edge of their seats while also prompting reflection on the vast landscapes of human emotions and the ties that bind us.