BOYS IN THE TREES (2017)

Written, Directed &Edited By: Nicholas Verso 
Cinematography By: Marden Dean 


Cast: Toby Wallace, Gulliver McGrath, Mitzi Ruhlmann, Justin Holborrow, Victoria Hill 

It's Halloween 1997 - the last night of high school for Corey, Jango and their skater gang, The Gromits. Childhood is over and adult life beckons. But for Corey, his past has some unfinished business. When he encounters Jonah, a former childhood friend but now victimized by Jango's cruel streak, Corey takes pity on him and agrees to walk him home for old time's sake. What starts off as a normal walk through empty suburban streets descends into something darker and magical as they tell each other ghost stories, drawing upon their fears of the world around them. As they walk through their memories and ghosts of the past, Corey is surprised to discover how much he still has in common with his abandoned friend. But on the night of the grave's delight, even the most buried truths will find a way of coming to life.

The film could use a better title, but the title is useful. As the film goes along you learn of it's significance.

This film doesn't really fit into any one box or genre. As to tell the truth it is always morphing into something else. It get's darker as it goes along and reveals it's secrets to the audience. Though on the way does offer some scares and suspense.

This is another imperfect film that really got to me the emotions involved and the power of the story really affects you. As there are more touching moments then you expect. As well as some truly horrific ones.

Though for some one can suspect that some audiences will easily dismiss the film. As it is overlong and we learn more about the protagonist from others the. From him or his actions.

The theme of the tale is that at heart it is a love story. Not necessarily a romantic one but one of intimacy, friendship, bonds and guilt. It's fragile yet so specific and beautiful. Illustrating all the ways It feels enriched with magic and emotion only set in reality that can be cruel amongst other things. Which will never let you forget the horror of fate and others.

It takes place when the characters are not kids but not adults yet. They are stuck in the middle where emotions are magnified and being asked to be responsible as actions have consequences but aren't entirely ready to handle them Either. Where you are embarking on a new chapter. It still ah e things from your past lingering that are afraid you will leave and forget if you move forward. Though they will always be part of your past and what helped make you who you are.

Though the film is lengthy and could be cut shorter. The length makes it seem more reinforced and constructed making it's story feel more deliberate in placement and reveals being up making the film feel stronger then it could have been. Now some of the tale might feel predictable it still doesn't lessen it's impact. The film at times seems to offer musical montages of mayhem and activity that feel like little quick music videos. That give off intensity and impressive visuals. As a group of characters are on the hunt and looking for one of their own. While at times the story telling is similar to that of Neil Jordan's IN THE COMPANY OF WOLVES. Where we are listening to stories of horror and folk lore while being in one ourselves. That follows a certain mythology. This film does that also but is far less gothic and more nostalgic using it's stories more for ghosts. That later transform into tales of growing up. Never letting go of your dream.

The film seems like it will offer you villains, but other then in the stories are there any real ones. As we get to see even the most harsh character's point of view and see somewhat of their human side. So that in the end while a horror film of sorts. It teaches a lesson. Which usually comes attached to fairy tales. As after all at heart it is a harsh coming of age tale.

The film also seems to be devoted to the world of wonder even in the dark side and the power and beauty of storytelling in all kinds of ways and how the strongest ones can be true or. Asked on something but down deep make you feel something that makes you want to believe. As they stay with you.

It offers some gut punches that you know you will have to accept to truly move on and feel the films strength.

The film is made to feel timeless though obviously meant to represent the 1990's though not for any particular reason. As we see the 90's technology all over and the soundtrack is devoted to bands and songs fro that era. Surprisingly the film doesn't have to do much to represent that time, but the film feels more timeless as we don't even see too much technology. Hell a car doesn't even become present until near the end. Which it seems is on purpose as the film seeks to be from the past and somewhat as in all fantasy hard to pin down for a time period. So that it won't get hung up on details and can be presented at any time. To feel like it is always relevant.

This is a patient film that rewards the audience while they watch and it unravels itself to reveal itself and it’s heart.

This film isn't for everyone, but is worth seeing.

This is a film I could easily see becoming a Halloween tradition.


Grade: B