Superior

Set in the nostalgic landscape of the mid-1960s, the movie Superior is an enticing and thought-provoking coming-of-age drama directed by Edd Benda. The film stars Paul Stanko, Thatcher Robinson, and Lisa Deschaine, each delivering performances that form the compelling base of this enthralling friendship saga.

The movie opens with Charlie (Paul Stanko) visiting his cousin, Derek (Thatcher Robinson) in Detroit, Michigan, during the summer of 1969. Both characters are at their life's crossroads, Charlie on the brink of entering the Vietnam War, and Derek entering college soon. This backdrop sets the stage for the reveal of each character's fears and anxieties about the impending future, giving the audience an intimate look into the minds of these young men.

Deciding to embark on one last adventure before life takes them on their respective paths, the two protagonists set out on a week-long bicycle trip around the beautiful Lake Superior. With only a map and each other's company, these cousins dive into the serenity of the natural world, their journey vividly shot, capturing the idyllic scenery and inherent spontaneity of the road trip.

The beauty of the film Superior lies not just in the picturesque frames, but also in the bond between Charlie and Derek. The friendship between the two cousins, their experiences, reflections, and transformations are portrayed realistically. The wonderful chemistry between the actors, Paul Stanko and Thatcher Robinson, illuminates the emotional depth and vulnerability of their characters, making them relatable and endearing to the audience.

As they traverse the territories around the mesmerizing Lake Superior, the duo comes across various characters, each personifying a different facet of life and 60s America. The pivotal role of Lila (Lisa Deschaine) is especially noteworthy, injecting interesting intricacies into the journey. Every interaction adds another piece to this rich tapestry of storytelling, offering a nuanced perspective on life, dreams, and the unforgiving march of time.

The narrative alternates between the beauty of nature and the personal conflicts of the characters, effectively using visual storytelling to convey the emotional undertones. The cinematography of Superior is truly captivating, capturing not only the stunning landscapes of Michigan but also the expressive nuances of the characters. The wide shots of the landscapes work in parallel with the close-ups of the characters, blending the vast external world with the intimate internal realm of human emotions.

Superior subtly uses elements of both drama and adventure, impressively balancing moments of tension and conflict with lighter instances of camaraderie and self-discovery. The dialogue is minimal but impactful, allowing the silent stretches of the journey to speak volumes about the characters' changing dynamics. The soundtrack, consisting of an eclectic blend of music from the era, harmoniously accentuates the mood of each scene.

In coming to terms with their imminent futures, both Charlie and Derek experience a gamut of emotions - uncertainty, fear, excitement, and acceptance. The movie brilliantly encapsulates these sentiments through the lens of their adventure, eventually bringing the characters back to their reality at the end of their journey, but with enriched perspectives about life and themselves.

Superior is categorically a coming-of-age tale, but it's also a film about friendship, transition, and the soothing power of nature. It's a testament to the delta of experiences that shape us, the uncertainties of the future that haunt us, and the relationships that ultimately define us.

Director Edd Benda, through this enchanting narrative, encourages viewers to embrace life's uncertainties, revel in the present moments, and cherish the relationships that truly matter in life. It's a crafted piece of cinema that beautifully encapsulates the spirit of youth, the charm of the 1960s, and the serene beauty of nature.

Superior, in essence, is not just a movie – it’s a beautifully crafted journey of friendship sprinkled with nostalgia, raw emotions, and breathtaking landscapes, making it a must-watch for fans of road-trip adventures and coming-of-age dramas.