Lebanon, PA.

Lebanon, PA. is a heart-rending 2010 drama that explores themes of family, identity, conservatism versus liberalism, love, and the loss of innocence. Directed and written by Ben Hickernell, the film features a commendable star-cast with Josh Hopkins, Rachel Kitson, and Ian Merrill Peakes, delivering captivating performances that captivate and resonate.

Josh Hopkins, recognized for his roles in popular television shows, steps into the shoes of the protagonist, Will, a 35-year-old Philadelphia ad man. The plot sets off when he comes to Lebanon, PA, a small, conservative town, to attend the funeral of his biological father – a man he barely knew. This unfortunate event brings him face to face with his half city, half country roots that he doesn't fully understand. Back in hometown, he is adrift in a sea of nostalgia, melancholy, grief, and strangeness.

In Lebanon, PA., he crosses paths with his teenage cousin CJ, commendably portrayed by Rachel Kitson, who is struggling with her own identity amidst the pressures of her conservative family and society. We see her navigating the shades of adolescence: battling frustration, encountering the highs of young love, experiencing the bitterness of broken dreams, and trying to grapple with an unwanted pregnancy. There's a deep bond formed between Will and CJ. In each other’s company, they find a sense of belonging, a source of understanding, thus providing audiences with moments that range from awkward to heartfelt.

Ian Merrill Preakes makes a strong showing as CJ's father, Andy, whose character brings a dimension of rigid righteousness and deeply ingrained traditions. The contrasting personalities of the characters set the stage for both internal and external conflicts, cleverly interspersed with endearing instances of love, friendship, and humanity.

Lebanon, PA. paints an absorbing portrayal of the generational and cultural divide between the urban motions of Philadelphia and the rural tranquility-exuding ambiance of Lebanon. From abortion to religion, director Ben Hickernell tackles a cornucopia of socio-political issues, without making the narrative overly political or melodramatic. The script smartly and unobtrusively conveys through its characters the implied impression of the push-pull of societal norms versus personal choices, creating a nudge for viewers to evaluate their own perspectives and biases.

Visually, the film showcases the strikingly calm and serene landscapes of Lebanon, in stark contrast with the fast-paced, bright city lights of Philadelphia, visibly reinforcing the story's inherent theme of the rural-urban divide. The uplifting and soothing soundtrack complements the movie's pacing and mood, adding a warm layer to the undercurrent of melancholy.

Despite its grave and socially pertinent themes, Lebanon, PA. avoids being preachy. It subtly nudges the audience into introspection about the fluid nature of morals, ethics, and the concept of 'rightness.' Its appeal lies in its truth-telling, in its commitment to portray the characters with all their flaws, vulnerabilities, strengths, and transformation. It’s a tale of everyday people facing everyday problems, which makes it deeply relatable.

Josh Hopkins carries his character Will with natural finesse, his performance oscillating between the big-city ambitious ad man and the lost man-child attempting to connect with his roots. Rachel Kitson as CJ shines with her sincere portrayal of teenage angst, portraying the conflict within with a raw honesty which makes her character endearing and easily empathizable.

In a nutshell, Lebanon, PA. is more than just a casual watch. It is a contemplative slice-of-life film that invites us to reflect upon and question our understanding of family, relationships, morals, conservatism, personal choices, love, and life itself. The movie remains rooted in realism from start to end, not shying away from showcasing the raw, unfiltered, and complicated facets of life — all of which are bound to leave an emotional, deep-seated impact on any viewer. Lebanon, PA. is a cinematic experience that celebrates life in its flawed, imperfect, and beautiful form, offering a story that resonates long after the screen darkens.