“The Frontier” is a 2015 American crime thriller directed by Oren Shai, marking his feature film debut. Co-written by Shai and Webb Wilcoxen, the film pays homage to classic film noir and Western genres, blending elements of both to craft a suspenseful narrative set against the backdrop of the American Southwest.
Plot Overview
The story centers on Laine (Jocelin Donahue), a drifter with a mysterious past, who finds herself at a secluded desert motel and diner named “The Frontier.” Owned by the enigmatic Luanne (Kelly Lynch), the establishment harbors a group of dubious characters: Lee (Jim Beaver), a stoic and menacing figure; the flamboyant couple Flynn (Jamie Harris) and Gloria (Izabella Miko); and Gloria’s younger brother, Eddie (Liam Aiken). As Laine becomes entangled with these individuals, she uncovers their involvement in a recent heist. Seeing an opportunity, Laine devises a plan to appropriate the stolen money, leading to a dangerous game of deception and betrayal.
Visual Style and Direction
Shai’s direction exhibits a deep appreciation for mid-20th-century cinema. The film’s aesthetic is reminiscent of 1970s crime dramas, achieved through meticulous production design and cinematography. Shot on 16mm film, “The Frontier” exudes a grainy texture that enhances its vintage feel. The use of desert landscapes and isolated settings amplifies the narrative’s tension and sense of foreboding. Shai’s deliberate pacing allows scenes to breathe, immersing the audience in the film’s atmospheric tension.
Cast and Performances
- Jocelin Donahue as Laine: Donahue delivers a nuanced performance, capturing Laine’s vulnerability and cunning. Her portrayal anchors the film, providing a relatable entry point into the story’s morally ambiguous world.
- Kelly Lynch as Luanne: Lynch embodies the role of the mysterious motel owner with a blend of charm and menace. Her character’s motivations remain obscured, adding layers of intrigue to the narrative.
- Jim Beaver as Lee: Beaver’s portrayal of the taciturn and imposing Lee adds gravitas to the ensemble, embodying the archetype of the hardened criminal.
- Izabella Miko and Jamie Harris as Gloria and Flynn: The duo brings a chaotic energy to their roles, portraying a volatile couple whose flamboyance masks a dangerous edge.
- Liam Aiken as Eddie: Aiken captures the youthful recklessness of Eddie, whose actions serve as a catalyst for the film’s climax.
Themes and Motifs
“The Frontier” delves into themes of trust, betrayal, and survival. The isolated motel serves as a microcosm where societal norms are stripped away, revealing the primal instincts of its inhabitants. The film explores the blurred lines between victim and perpetrator, challenging the audience’s perceptions of morality. Additionally, the narrative examines the concept of identity, as characters adopt facades to conceal their true intentions.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, “The Frontier” garnered mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its stylistic homage to classic noir and the performances of the cast, others critiqued its pacing and character development. Scott Foundas of Variety described the film as “appreciably moody, but dramatically stilted,” noting that its pastiche occasionally veers into kitsch. Conversely, reviewers from Culture Crypt acknowledged Shai’s confident direction, stating that “few first-time features are as assured as Oren Shai’s.”
Conclusion
“The Frontier” stands as a testament to Oren Shai’s reverence for classic genre filmmaking. While it may not resonate with all audiences, its commitment to stylistic authenticity and atmospheric storytelling offers a compelling experience for enthusiasts of neo-noir cinema. The film’s exploration of deception and survival, set against a meticulously crafted vintage backdrop, marks it as a noteworthy entry in the realm of independent crime thrillers.