Live Cargo

Live Cargo is a gripping drama movie from 2016 directed by Logan Sandler in his feature debut, which features Dree Hemingway, LaKeith Stanfield, Robert Wisdom, and Sam Dillon in the lead roles. The film explores themes of loss, survival, and the complex human emotions evoked by tragedy and despair. It offers a profound and affecting exploration of grief interspersed with a sinister element of local crime, all set against the backdrop of a grimly beautiful Bahamian island.

Dree Hemingway gives a powerful performance as Nadine, a woman coming to terms with a devastating personal loss. Similarly impressive is LaKeith Stanfield as Lewis, a young man dealing with his own struggles and past mistakes. The two protagonists, seemingly worlds apart, come together in the most unexpected of circumstances — an out-of-the-way island in the Bahamas. They both seek refuge and a form of metamorphosis in this isolated location scarred by its own demons.

A key figure on the island is Roy, brilliantly portrayed by Robert Wisdom. Roy is a recovering alcoholic and island patriarch who carries the weight of the community's problems on his shoulders. His mission is to protect the interests of the island, including going head-to-head with Doughboy, a ruthless human trafficker determined to exploit the vulnerable island for his own gains.

Sam Dillon plays Doughboy, a man who exploits the desperation of the residents who seek a way out of the island. He ferries illegal immigrants on his boat, subjecting them to inhumane conditions. Doughboy's role presents a stark contrast to Roy's as both of them vie for control of their individual visions for the island. This establishes the central conflict that pushes the story forward and teases out the past tragedies and dark secrets that haunt the characters.

What sets Live Cargo apart is the stunning black and white cinematography by Daniella Nowitz that captures the contrast between the island's grim realities and its tranquil beauty. The film is visually arresting, painting a picture of the remote and raw island landscape that forms the perfect setting for the story that unfolds. There is a sense of gravity, of life on the edge, where deprivation cohabitates with hope and the primal lure of the sea. Such cinematic beauty aids in drawing out the deeply-rooted emotions of the characters.

In terms of pacing, Live Cargo takes its time to reveal the inner worlds of its characters. It savors the quiet moments, dwelling on close-ups and melodramatic moments, signaling the audience to focus on the character's emotions rather than the plot. The narrative unfolds at a contemplative pace, allowing for a haunting exploration of grief, despair, and the human endeavor for redemption. The script is minimalistic, putting more emphasis on visual storytelling and atmospheric settings.

Live Cargo explores the dichotomy of paradise; how a picturesque island could hide darker undercurrents beneath its turf. It uses its paradisiacal setting not as a blissful escape but as a breeding ground for a narrative that seeks to depict the endurance of the human spirit in face of adversity. The gray scale cinematography further accentuates this concept, making the beautiful scenery appear somber and solemn, mirroring the characters' emotions.

While Live Cargo has a nuanced script and a captivating visual narrative, the performances of the leads certainly stand out. Dree Hemingway does an excellent job at portraying a woman trying to put herself back together in the wake of a personal tragedy. LaKeith Stanfield, too, leaves a lasting impression with his portrayal of Lewis' predicaments. Both characters grapple with their realities in silence, their struggles captured chiefly through their actions and expressions rather than their words. Additionally, Robert Wisdom and Sam Dillon deliver memorable performances with the characters of Roy and Doughboy, forming the backbone of the island's story.

In conclusion, Live Cargo is a visually striking film that explores the complexity of human emotions and narratives against the background of a tropical island. The characters, plot, and cinematography come together to create a deeply emotional and poignant film that deals with love, loss, redemption, and survival. It's a compelling challenge to the stereotype of paradise, offering a thought-provoking cinematic experience.