Testosterone flows in Walking Out. This coming-of-age tale involves a father and his son in beautiful American wilderness in the middle of winter.
This is a slow-burn movie that takes some time to appreciate. I was uncomfortable for large tracts of it because it concerns hunting large game. I looked at the stately creatures and I found it heartbreaking to watch. Further, the way the father treats the son is also decidedly disconcerting. He’s harsh and he all but badgers his son into submission. But a change in that relationship forms a pivotal part of the movie. I grew to appreciate the unrestrained performance of Bomer and the wide-eyed innocence of his young charge, as played by Wiggins.
Very little happens for the first half hour or so. I thought here was much ado about nothing but then a single scene makes a world of difference. Suddenly, a greater urgency takes over and my interest was piqued.
The relationship between the father, Cal, and his own father, Clyde – revealed gradually via semi regular flashbacks – plays a significant part in proceedings. Cal’s error-riddled back-story provides a life lesson.
The snow-laden mountains are undoubtedly a feature of the film. Their dominating presence plays out like a character in its own right. They don’t follow anyone’s command. Todd McMullen’s images and the style of the picture reminded me of The Revenant.
Walking Out is a film for selective tastes – a tale about power and connection, survival and country.
Director: Alex Smith, Andrew J Smith
Cast: Matt Bomer, Josh Wiggins, Bill Pullman
Release Date: 5 April 2018
Rating: M
Alex First
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David Edwards is the editor of The Blurb and a contributor on film and television