Forsaken

Forsaken takes the viewer deep into the heart of the Western frontier, following the struggles and personal transformation of a Civil War veteran returning to his hometown. Directed by Jon Cassar and released in 2015, this movie features riveting performances by Kiefer Sutherland, Donald Sutherland, and Esther Purves-Smith.

As the film opens, the audience is introduced to the main protagonist, John Henry Clayton (played by Kiefer Sutherland). John is an embittered Civil War veteran who has spent his years since the fighting ended as a gunfighter. Rather than seeking out further confrontations, John simply wants to lay down his firearms and pick up the simple, humble life he once knew. His ultimate objective is to mend his relationship with his alienated father and to gain closure surrounding the death of his mother.

The picturesque western locale offers a haunting backdrop to John's unfolding journey. The harsh realities reflected in the vast Western landscapes provide a fitting parallel to John's internal battles, creating emotionally charged scenes that engage the audience.

Donald Sutherland masterfully portrays Reverend William Clayton, John's estranged father. Reverend Clayton is a stoic man of faith, who has tried to keep his community together amidst chaos and lawlessness. The strained relationship between the father and son adds another layer of drama to the plot, with their differences forming a heartbreaking divide that they must confront.

Esther Purves-Smith brings to life the character of Amelia, a strong-willed woman grappling with her own tragedies. Her encounters with John offer a glimmer of potential romance, adding further depth to the plot and introducing dimensions of hope, healing, and connection amidst the increasingly intense setting.

The narrative of Forsaken comes to life amid a climate of tension and panic within the town. The greedy James McCurdy (Brian Cox) and his violent henchmen are bullying the townsfolk into selling their lands. The uncompromising stand of the few remaining landowners provides a lighting rod for the plot, instigating a chain of engrossing events. This socio-political struggle underpinning the narrative adds the edge of your seat tension, creating an atmosphere laden with threat and promised violence.

As the plot unfolds, John finds himself in a difficult predicament. His vow to abandon violence is constantly tested by the crooks exploiting his hometown. This wrenching conflict within John – the seeming incompatibility of his commitment to non-violence and the necessity to protect his town and its inhabitants – forms a crucial narrative arc in the film. Will he succumb to his old ways, or will he find another path to protect those he has come to care for?

At its core, Forsaken is essentially a tale of redemption. It explores the journey of a flawed protagonist seeking closure, peace, and reconciliation. The relationship between John and his father adds a poignant touch, allowing viewers to delve into the complex dynamics of familial relations set against a harsh environment. The possible romantic connection between John and Amelia offers a softer subplot, coloring the narrative with emotion, expectation, and vulnerability.

The period details in the film also merit praise. From the costume designs to the settings, the meticulous staging helps to transport viewers back to the post-Civil War era, embracing them in an authentic portrayal of the Western frontier. Cinematography of the film brilliantly captures the grandeur and desolation of the Western landscape, making it a silent yet potent character of the film.

Forsaken exhibits all the classic elements of a Western, while also digging deeper into its characters' emotional landscapes. It's a well-crafted amalgamation of tension, action, and emotion, set against a visually striking backdrop. The performances of Kiefer Sutherland, Donald Sutherland, and Esther Purves-Smith breathe life into the narrative, pushing the boundaries of traditional Western tropes.

With its nuanced storytelling, compelling character dynamics, and measured infusion of action, Forsaken is a film that beautifully balances genre conventions with a profound exploration of human relationships and personal redemption. It's a riveting journey into the heart of the Western frontier, filled with conflict, emotion, and the enduring hope for a better future.