Falcon Song

Falcon Song is a 2014 feature-length movie notable for its visually compelling cinematography and unique storyline, which is set in the 1980s. The movie beautifully marries the elements of surrealism, magic realism, and classic western cinema, offering an exciting experience for viewers. With its dynamic cast, including Rainey Qualley in her first lead role, Gabriel Sunday, an Independent Spirit Award Nominee, and Martin Kove, a cult film veteran from Karate Kid, the movie involved deeply nuanced performances in a fitting tribute to the silver screen.

Directed and written by Jason Corgan Brown, Falcon Song tells the story of a guitarist and drifter cowboy, presented by Gabriel Sunday, who discovers his true calling in the civilized world and decides to contest a greedy oil driller (Martin Kove). The film uniquely unfolds the pensive storyline in the enchanting landscapes of Montana that aptly reflect the internal conflicts of the protagonists.

Rainey Qualley, in her debut lead role, portrays a rancher’s daughter, Sarah, who finds herself caught up amid burgeoning corporatization, power, greed, and introspection. This young, spirited woman is seen finding her voice, grappling with her own self while asserting her presence in the world of men, all at the same time. The complexity of her character is beautifully delineated by the actress and resonates deeply with the audience.

Gabriel Sunday, the drifter cowboy with a mysterious aura, brilliantly weaves the essential elements of simplicity, guts, and grit in his portrayal. His character personifies the typical cowboy spirit coupled with an unusual artistic side of a guitarist. He finds himself taking on the role of the reluctant hero standing up to injustice and corporatization within his small town, personified by Martin Kove's character.

Martin Kove dons the antagonist’s role, symbolizing the greedy oil driller cardinal to corporatization. His character simultaneously reflects the loss of value and disregard for nature, a common theme of the 1980s. His performance brings a great deal of tension and conflict to the storyline deftly personifying the corporate antagonist.

The juxtaposition of 80’s era corporatization with magical realism lends a unique air to the Falcon Song narrative. With its hints of vintage Americana and a sprinkling of magical realism, it renounces clichéd action-packed narratives and introduces a refreshing mix of surrealism, tranquillity, and engagement.

The movie’s strength also lies in its arresting cinematography, beautifully capturing the stunning Montana vistas mirrored by a reminiscent 1980's colour palette that enhances each frame. The film’s score, created by folk/rock artists, fits perfectly with the ambient synchrony morphing into an almost character-like presence throughout. The film intersperses ambient, instrumental cues with lyrical songs that nicely underpin the narrative's emotional facets, reinforcing the film’s mood and vitality.

Falcon Song also looks and feels like a product of the times it represents, mostly due to the filmmakers' innovative utilization of the 1980s shooting technology using an original 1980's film camera. This meticulous attention to detail gives the film a truly immersive and authentic feel.

With a considerate blend of fantasy, drama, and western elements, Falcon Song provides a thoughtful reflection on values and the price of progress. It makes a quiet, however, impactful statement about the importance of resisting unnecessary corporate intervention in an ever-evolving society.

In conclusion, Falcon Song is a must-watch for enthusiasts of classic western cinema and magic realism, offering a richly evocative, visually delightful, and thought-provoking exploration into the classic good versus evil paradigm with its unique narrative flair that successfully transforms a seemingly familiar tale into an engaging trip down memory lane.