Permafrost

I think one can only applaud the talent, effort and passion that go towards creating a first-time, feature length film. Lenni Uitto proves he has potential for a solid future in filmmaking.

Not generally a fan of post-apocalyptic genre, I was drawn into the gripping, opening scene and found myself eager to see where exactly this story was going to take me. From the beginning, Permafrost boasts a breathtaking cinematic experience to showcase a cold and lonely existence. Perfect ambiance for what was most-likely some very frigid filming.

The main character, James (played by Uitto) has some great, poignant and playful moments in his interactions with little girl Meg (Riley Hardy), as well as some authentic interactions with Sam (Frank Cutler) and the arctic sled dogs (Fluffy gave the most tender performance).

At times, I wasn't quite sure what was going on or how some of the character interactions fit in to advance the story, and felt like there could have been less characters and more depth into some favorites.

There were a few scene transitions that felt abrupt, where I wanted to finish feeling the emotion, but ended up being cut short by editing.

Although I found a couple of the scenes unrealistic in execution (shootout and bar scene), it was fun to see the Kafusi brothers in action off of the football field.

I was pleasantly surprised with the exquisite, original Soundtrack from Canadian composer Yann Latour.

I also give a nod for casting some convincing bad guys, Jeremiah (Cory Dangerfield) and Mikhail (Ayden Tyler Hatch).

Overall, I definitely had fun watching this film and I'm excited to see what else Uitto brings to life in the future.

While this genre of film, post-apocalyptic wasteland type story, isn't usually my thing, I have to say that I enjoyed this one for its originality and heart. There is some amazing cinematography in this and a great overall performance by the lead character who portrays both a ruthless, heartless man, while at the same time showing a more vulnerable and soft side.

I do wish the story was more simple. It seemed to get sidetracked at times with unneeded characters popping in and out of the film without much purpose or story advancement, which took away from the screentime of the characters I was most interested in and that had more importance.

That said, I was engaged and entertained. Loved the music and overall sound design, as well as the world building the film offered. An above average experience for me.

All of the elements for an exciting film with rich subtext exist within this film. As a first-time feature for Director and Actor Lenni Uitto, it breaks the mold for what to expect from new talent.

Going into the movie, be prepared for the flow between scenes to feel somewhat disjointed and separated from one another. Motivations for each character feel sensationalized in the name of dramatization on screen, but the plot of the film stands as unique, creative and with great potential for a sequel or eventual reboot. The plot: "the world is thrown into an ice age-like state and human survivors exist in factions and exist in organized chaos to prolong their survival."

While there's a multiple holes that can be poked into this film, it still stands as one worth watching for any movie aficionado. The building blocks for an amazing film are there and anyone who watches the film can see that. But no film has ever achieved perfection, only completion. And I for one, can't wait to see what this new director/actor produces for us next.

Wow, this is one I very highly recommend. It's engaging and entertaining, keeps the viewer wondering what is happening, doesn't give away too much. The relationships between a few of the characters are endearing and by the end of the film, we understand why the lead hero has made certain decisions, and we see a sort of redemption that is even better than one could have hoped for. Cinematography is stunning. And that soundtrack! Amazing. I wish the film could have been longer, I felt immersed and invested from the very beginning. There's a little girl in the film who really gave an outstanding performance, as well as the hero lead. He's a gentle giant with a big heart and a tragic past. The little girl holds her own against the "bad guys" and is sort of a conscience to the gruff rescuer. I'm trying not to give away too much. But I loved this film! Don't take my word for it... see it and enjoy! Well done to the cast and crew.

First I'll start by saying I don't particularly enjoy post apocalyptic films, mostly because they fall short of certain aspects while trying to build up a world.

I feel Permafrost was well done and you were quickly enveloped into James' world and the struggle to survive. Great cinematography and soundtrack.

It would've been nice for them to go into more detail on the factions, because they had so many different details but were disposed of before you even had a chance to feel for them.

Two standout actors were Luca(John Terry) and Tiberia(Charla Boccichio). I thought they brought something more to the written character that proved fascinating and you wanted to know more of their story.

I think that some character/casting choices were questionable but overall nothing to complain about.

I'd definitely give this a recommend and look forward to more work from Lenni Uitto, as you can tell that he is passionate about what he does.