Freedom State

What an incredible journey, both eye opening and heart warming. A story that echos the sincerity of "One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest". It is a unique look into the human mind. At first glance, one already knows that this will be a delving look into the human condition, yet one is surprised when it ventures beyond the bounds of anything remotely cheesy. Both humorous and enlightening it is truly a joy to watch. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is ready for something extraordinary. Be Warned, it might just change your view on life. I really look forward to future endeavors by these filmmakers, and have high expectations of their work.

FREEDOM STATE is one of the more unique films I've seen lately. It offers no explanation or apology for being different. It just is. And that is an asset to the movie.

It's about a group of intellectually disabled people in what appears to be a post-apocalyptic world. The premise alone sounds very different, but once you put it on you'll realize that this is a film no one could have predicted. I can see how some would really love this film for what it is. As for me, I enjoyed it. Recommend.

When I got the opportunity to see this film, I jumped on it. I had heard great things about the director and the film and really wanted to see what caused the fuss. And once watching it, I understood.

It is quite a quirky film with unique characters in a web of different mindsets, goals, and interactions - I was informed the style is very French-like. I can relate to the lead actress as she feels that she is not living in the 'real' world and the bus adventure that occurs entertained me a great deal. I felt like I was reliving the best parts of childhood: the parts where we experience the world through our imaginations unlimited by societal expectations.

If you get a chance to watch this movie, please do. I think you'll enjoy it.

The cast is brilliant as a batch of quirky characters caught up in their own magical mystery tour, as they embark upon a whimsical journey through the countryside of a perceived post-Apocalyptic world. "Freedom State" is one of those films that really captures the attention more through character development rather than today's flash and floundering. This film has a vision that is really less purpose and more introspection into how different minds and personalities meld in an almost surreal world.

The main character Krystal - as played exceptionally by Megan Murphy - is bored and attention-deprived in her lackluster marriage and home life, she wants something else, but not sure what. Her wish is to "learn to be crazy," because "being normal is crazy." In many ways, these lines ring true.

"Freedom State" could almost be viewed as a modern-day more abstract and adult "Wizard Of Oz," as nothing is real but all are involved. The fact that their surreal journey takes place in the vehicle of the rest home's yellow short bus also adds the Beatle-esquire "Magical Mystery Tour" aspect ("Yellow Submarine" anyone?).

Coming in at just about one hour long, it is exactly as long as it should be for the story contained within. No matter what one might think while viewing it, it leaves a lasting impression in the mind and the desire to see it again. Rarely is seen a film with as well- matched a cast as in "Freedom State." "Freedom State" is a must see.

I saw this film premier at the Cinequest Festival. It showed a distinct visual flavor. The film seems more like reading a book with beautiful and meaningful imagery. Definite Wes Anderson influences. I don't believe this film is for everyone. I would like to watch it again. Afterwards, my impression was there were a lot of detailed elements I missed. And when the director said the film cost less than $100,000 to make; I couldn't believe it. Production value was outstanding. Some memorable performances. And most of all, it actually left me months later still thinking about it. I liked it more in retrospect than I did during the actual viewing (though I had a smile on my face during the screening). I think that means something. Great directorial debut.