Abilene

"Abilene" is a stunningly beautiful film that is poignant and uplifting. Ernest Borgnine and Kim Hunter are achingly real (and Oscar worthy) as Hotis and Emmaline, two people who are coming to terms with their past. Supporting roles by Park Overall, and James Morrison parallel the lead parts and give the film depth and generational dimension.

Joe Camp III's screenplay is subtle, humorous, and true. It is a rare treat compared to the dull, exposition heavy, SFX reliant films that have become commonplace. Camp is also talented and promising as a new director. I am already anticipating his next film.

With the recent glut of soulless "evil teen" films, "Abilene" is a deeply gratifying and refreshing change. And one that will certainly be very well growing number of older people in the USA. However, distributors need not fear that the film is limited to the older market. I am 27 years old and I loved it, and I know that most of my friends will too. A great story like this has no age limit.

Before my wife and I saw this movie, I read the review in the Austin Chronicle. As a result, I expected a pretty, but very slow - and probably boring - movie. However, I went because Abilene was being shown as a fundraiser for a local non-profit organization. It was a Good Cause.

Boy, were we surprised. Abilene is a gem. Perhaps even flawless. It's both lush and lean. Yes, the photography is gorgeous, but the characters are equally well-crafted. Every one of them is real and interesting. The dialogue is excellent, with no unnecessary verbiage. The relationships are authentic. The script is intelligent and has depth. Ernest Borgnine is at the top of his form, as is Kim Hunter. In fact, the entire cast was outstanding.

We liked this movie. A lot. And, of course, we cried.

"Abilene" is a moving portrait of the lives of two souls in the winter of their lives and the people who surround them. A slice of village life in the heart of America, the film undulates beautifully through their story, capturing those moments in their lives that will always be etched in the stone of their memories; a coffee cup rattling the moment Emmeline's husband's heart fails, a look, a gesture. Cinematically these moments unfold in a graceful movement of stunning tableaus. I will remember "Abilene" for some time.

This movie is a beautiful snapshot of life in the heartland. Love, life and death are portrayed simply yet entwined in a plot that holds your interest until the final moments. The scenery of Texas is gorgeous and fits well in the context of the story. A winner!

Abilene touches the heart, soul, and conscience (hopefully) of the moviegoer. A refreshing tale about love and beauty told in the same manner as the Texas countryside itself -- unassuming, eloquent, simplistic, peculiar, and sometimes...forgiving. Joe Camp III has forged the aesthetic of movie making into a new realm upon which movie makers and viewers alike can reflect.