8/10
Running away from the past
14 January 2020
Warning: Spoilers
Flat out busted broke American tourist Michael (a solid and likeable performance by Diego Boneta) finds himself lost and adrift in Medellin, Columbia while attempting to escape his troubled past. Michael meets the fetching Melody (an appealing portrayal by Maria Mesa), who introduces Michael to a group of misfit youths led by the charismatic Jacob (a mesmerizing turn by Jackson Rathbone) who reside in an old abandoned psychiatric hospital and live life to the limit.

Director Kirk Sullivan relates the compelling story at a constant pace, maintains a grimly serious tone throughout, nicely captures the dark allure of living life on the edge, and makes neat use of the rundown main location. Andrew Poston's thoughtful script makes a pertinent and provocative point about the danger inherent in not being able to let go of the past as well as the potential bitter price one might have to pay for living such a carefree lifestyle. The downbeat ending packs a devastating punch. The sharp widescreen cinematography by Joshua Reis offers a wealth of striking trippy visuals. A cool little film.
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