I admit it was the involvement of experimental Norwegian masterminds Ulver that drew me in. A far cry from the wide variety of styles they have explored throughout their career of more than 30 years, the music they composed for filmmaker Justin Oakey is nonetheless just as entrancing in its own right. Rich electronic ambient themes swell and recede as scenes demand, sustaining a simmering tension even in moments of otherwise quiet, and building to a hair-raising crescendo in instances of the greatest suspense and hostility. The score is so strong on its own merits that I wouldn't mind adding it to my music collection - and I barely even listen to music any more.
Notably contrasting with the stark, serene beauty of the rural setting, Ulver's great contribution pairs terrifically with the narrative, and the dark tone 'Riverhead' maintains throughout its length. The story is one of small-town division, family feuds, cultural clashes, and deep enmity amounting to racism and xenophobia in a working class community. These are nothing new, but the specific course of events that flows from these notions is unexpectedly jolting. That we've seen other movies of a similar bent does nothing to diminish the grim, vibrant energy here, nor dull the impact of the violence. The dialogue is biting, and there's suitable variety from one scene to the next to continually stir the pot as conflicts grow and emotions run ever higher. I can only commend Oakey for a fantastic screenplay - this is sharp and grabbing, and it never lets go.
The cast turn in performances of such marvelous passion and fire that it's easy to slip into a mind that the tale isn't fiction at all. Everyone in front of the camera commands outstanding poise and force of personality that makes every argument feel like it's happening right in the same room we're sitting in. That realist slant is aided by the unimpeachable technical craft underlying the feature - Oakey's direction (and editing) is just as fine as his writing, and he illustrates a capable eye for shot composition. The cinematography and sound design are both crisp and clear, ensuring viewers are able to take in every last detail of the tawdry saga. To be honest, I had mixed expectations as I began watching, but this is a title that won me over all by itself.
Strictly as a matter of personal preference this won't appeal to all comers. For my part, however, I'm delighted by firstly just how ruthless the story is, but also how absolutely solid the production is from top to bottom. Ulver's score, Oakey's screenplay, and the acting all stand out the most, but I'm of the belief that everything about 'Riverhead' was executed with extraordinary, careful attention and unanticipated expertise. I wouldn't have thought so when I first sat to watch it, but ultimately I can only say I love this, and it earns my enthusiastic recommendation!
