South Mountain

South Mountain is a poignant and emotionally charged indie film from 2019 directed and written by Hilary Brougher. The movie features a strong cast including Talia Balsam, Scott Cohen, and Andrus Nichols whose performances captivate viewers, making for a riveting cinematic experience.

"South Mountain" lays bare the quiet chaos and raw emotions experienced by a family dealing with betrayal and a looming empty nest. At the center of the story is Lila (played by Talia Balsam), a mother and teacher who must contend with the crumbling of her seemingly stable life when her husband Edgar (Scott Cohen) confesses his infidelity.

Dwelling in the serene setting of the Catskills, the seemingly peaceful life of the family is disrupted with this revelation. Set during one summer, the film beautifully weaves in the scenic environment as a powerful narrative backdrop. The metaphor of the movie’s title “South Mountain” mirrors the trials and struggles episodically encountered by this family. Director Hilary Brougher cleverly utilizes this location to symbolize the isolation Lila experiences as her personal life disintegrates.

Central to Lila’s world are her two daughters, Sam and Dara. The relationship between mother and daughters is a big part of the film, reflecting the care and attention each character pays to one another as they try to comprehend the consequences of Edgar's unfaithfulness. Furthermore, Lila also finds comfort in her circle of friendship with neighbors and friends, particularly Gigi (Andrus Nichols), her rock when things get rough.

"South Mountain" focuses on internal reactions rather than dramatic confrontations that lead to exacerbated conflicts. This intimate film is characterized more by introspection and personal explorations of the human heart rather than external explosions of fighting and screaming. One can observe the evolution of Lila and her daughters as they grapple with their new reality, learn to support each other through their challenging times, and become closer than before.

Talia Balsam, known for her strong performances in many supporting roles, shines as the lead in the film. She delivers a layered portrayal of Lila, encompassing the complexity of a woman wrestling with feelings of betrayal, abandonment, sorrow, anger, and ultimately, acceptance. Simultaneously, Scott Cohen gives depth to Edgar, a character who could easily become a stereotypical villain. Instead, he provides a humane version of a flawed person who’s made hurtful mistakes, showcasing guilt, regret, and an understanding of the pain he’s caused.

Moreover, Brougher's direction offers an honest portrayal of a middle-aged woman’s response to betrayal and her struggles within the family setup. The film concentrates on the inner life of its characters, using the close-knit setting and understated screenplay to emphasize that. It is also marked by a patient pacing which allows the audience to fully absorb the emotional magnitude of the story.

"South Mountain" takes an introspective look at the complexities of family dynamics, love, betrayal, loss and the quiet strength that emerges from the ruins when life doesn't go as planned. Every character, every moment, and every theme come together elegantly in this film, enabling viewers to truly empathize with Lila’s progress from shocked disbelief to weary acceptance.

Brougher's storytelling strength lies not just in the well-developed plot but also in its less-is-more approach, subtly allowing the characters to gradually reveal their emotions without the need for dramatic confrontations. Throughout the film, there is an emphasis on the characters trying to hold on to their love for the family, making sense of their transforming emotions while navigating the changing dynamic within the family.

The cinematography is another notable aspect, adeptly capturing the lush, pastoral environment of the Catskills. The film excellently juxtaposes the peace and tranquility of the surroundings with the turmoil brewing in Lila's life. These panoramic views of nature provide moments of contemplative silence, enabling Lila to introspect her life and find her potential path forward.

In conclusion, "South Mountain" is a thought-provoking, raw and moving film about a family's resilience while dealing with the implications of betrayal. It takes us on Lila's journey - a woman betrayed but not broken, armed with the quiet strength to rebuild and move on. Brimming with multi-dimensional performances and conveyed through undeniably authentic storytelling, you'll find this drama to be a nuanced and deeply affecting portrayal of family life, love, and loss.