The Frontier

Set against the backdrop of the American Southwest during the late 1970s, The Frontier is a neo-noir crime drama that masterfully blends elements of mystery, action, and suspense. This 2015 movie directed by Oren Shai is an homage to the classic crime dramas of the past, featuring an unforgettable performance from its multi-talented cast, including Jocelin Donahue, Kelly Lynch, and Jim Beaver.

The movie unfolds through the lens of the lead character Laine, portrayed by Jocelin Donahue. Laine is a young woman on the run from her murky past, who discovers a small desert town, a seeming window into a time forgotten. Here, she bumps into the Frontier, a rundown motel and diner run by Luanne, played by the incomparable Kelly Lynch. The Frontier, although timeworn and far removed from civilization, becomes a snug hideout for Laine to lay low and hopefully stay one step ahead of her pursuers. However, the motel adds another layer of mystery and intrigue to Laine's complicated predicament rather than providing a safe haven.

An intelligent turn of events leads Laine to unravel a sinister plot engineered by Luanne and the unassuming residents of the Frontier. She discovers their plans about a significant, soon-to-be-happening heist, and an opportunity presents itself. Given her desperate situation, instead of heading for the hills, she decides to exploit the situation to her advantage. The clever and assertive Laine plans to outwit Luanne and her crew, steal their wealth, and secure a future for herself. Hence, the game of deception, betrayal, and survival ensues, with Laine trying her best to outmaneuver everyone in her path.

Kelly Lynch, as the charismatic motel owner Luanne, and Jim Beaver as the grizzled old crime boss, provide sterling performances that add depth to their characters. Their interplay throughout the narrative in line with the series of unfolding events keeps the audience engaged and at the edge of their seats. Lynch, with her sharp manners and unfriendly demeanor, puts up a façade behind which lays a crafty mind adept in criminal workshops. Beaver, on the other hand, as the seasoned and wise boss, is both formidable and nuanced, his on-screen presence lending a well-balanced sinister aura to the film's ambiance.

The director, Oren Shai, and the writers, Webb Wilcoxen and Shai, navigate the gritty world of crime with deftness while capturing the essence of the noir genre, complete with its moral ambiguities and shady characters. Borrowing elements from vintage crime narratives, they blend tension, character development, and compelling storytelling to deliver a cinematic experience that's simultaneously refreshing and reminiscent of classical Hollywood.

The cinematography by Jayson Crothers conjures a strong sense of place. Beautifully and intricately, it paints a picture of the American Southwest with its endless, desolate landscapes and a rugged, old-fashioned charm that mirrors the era. The striking visuals infused with a muted color palette transport the viewer to a forgotten era, serving as a suitable backdrop for the unfolding drama. Shai’s attention to visual style, combined with an evocative score by Honeychild Coleman, layers the film with a unique, otherwordly quality that excels in the neo-noir genre.

The Frontier is an arresting pastiche of tension, suspense, and dark humor. It’s a slow-burn period piece that builds a compelling narrative thread that rewards the patient viewer with its uncanny character arcs and an unpredictable storyline. The film unravels a tangled web of deceit, where everyone dons the guise of being ordinary; underneath, they bear their own ulterior motives.

In conclusion, The Frontier is a high-stakes game of survival where characters navigate a world laden with schemes, hidden alliances, and unexpected turns. With its beautifully realized vintage aesthetic, stellar performances, and expertly crafted narrative, The Frontier keeps its audience thoroughly engaged throughout its proceedings. It is a thrilling watch for those who appreciate nuanced, character-driven crime dramas and a must-see for fans of the neo-noir genre.