The Shade Shepherd

The Shade Shepherd is an engaging thriller movie from 2019 starring Jordon Hodges, Randy Spence, and Caroline Newton. Directed by Chris Faulisi and produced by Jordon Hodges, this feature offers a rollercoaster of emotions, blending an intense storyline with themes of desperation, redemption, and sacrifice.

Set in the late 1980s, the film embarks on an intricate journey alongside main character, Dr. Pike Sanborne portrayed by Jordon Hodges. Pike is a respected but troubled psychiatrist grappling with his demons. He faces an escalating plight due to his addiction to narcotics. Triggered by an unplanned consequence of his drug use, he is driven to desperation.

In contrast to his personal struggles, Pike’s brother, Jack, delivered by Randy Spence, is a scallywag outdoorsman who drifts through life by resorting to petty crimes and illegal activities. Despite the brothers' differences, they are bound by their bond of brotherhood. Jack, despite his roguish ways, makes a decision to step up to help Pike evade the grip of the law.

Thus, the film intricately explores a unique symbiosis. Jack’s cunning, street smart ways and survival skills gleamed from living at the edge of society come in handy for their intense journey. Pike, on the other hand, despite being ravaged by his addiction, offers the moral balance to Jack.

The movie follows the brothers as they embark on a desperate, complex cross-country run towards the Canadian border in an attempt to escape the law chasing Pike. However, they do not just face physical constraints, but they must also grapple with their psychological scars and haunting past while keeping up the facade of being average tourists.

During their audacious escape, they cross paths with a young runaway, Savannah, played by Caroline Newton. Savannah's character adds a different spin to the already convoluted journey. The dynamics she brings to the brothers' relationship, coupled with her own hidden reality, lends another shade to this thrilling narrative.

The Shade Shepherd's soundtrack, composed by Grant Fonda, is hauntingly beautiful, effectively setting the tone for the movie's intense scenes. The cinematography by Cory Geryak fully embraces the vast outdoor wilderness scenes, portraying the brothers' odyssey in stunning visuals tuning perfectly to the timeline of the late eighties.

Punctuated by breathtaking scenery, the film beautifully creates a grim paradox. As the characters navigate through exquisite wild landscapes, their inner turmoil and external tribulations create an atmosphere of tension and suspense. This contradictory position between their harsh realities and the tranquility of nature enriches the cinematic experience.

Director Chris Faulisi successfully juxtaposes suspense, family dynamics, personal demons, redemption and the innocence of a rare friendship in this riveting thriller. Jordon Hodges, Randy Spence, and Caroline Newton deliver absorbing performances that underscore the intricacies of their characters as they collectively take the audience on their rollercoaster escape journey.

The film powerfully deconstructs the notion of freedom and explores the lengths humans would go to preserve it. It also implicitly highlights the societal norms of the late '80s, raising questions about mental health, drug addiction, morality and the cost of second chances. The movie dexterously combines fast-paced thrilling aspects with thought-provoking themes, making it a captivating watch.

The Shade Shepherd is a gripping narrative of brotherhood, survival and seeking redemption. It narrates an escape tale against the backdrop of personal and societal dilemmas. The movie's intriguing storyline, combined with outstanding performances, direction, cinematography and musical composition, provides a wholesome cinematic experience. For those who seek a film that goes beyond the surface to ignite emotions and provoke thoughts, The Shade Shepherd is the one to watch.